Barbara Smith, R.N., recognized by state for her water safety efforts
Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital Trauma Program Coordinator Barbara Smith, R.N., recently was recognized as a Hometown Health Hero by the state of Michigan for her water safety advocacy efforts.
The Michigan Public Health Week Partnership presented her the award during ceremonies at the State Capitol in Lansing. State Sen. Darwin Booher, who represents Benzie County, was on hand to offer her congratulations. The award recognizes individuals and organizations across the state working to maintain and improve the health of their communities.
“It gives us great pleasure to present you with this award for your accomplishments and dedication to your community’s health and well-being,” said James F. Koval, coordinator of Michigan Public Health Week Partnership.
Smith was nominated for her award by Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital’s Lab Manager Sandi Honigfort.
“Barbara is an Emergency Room nurse and has been involved in a number of cases where patients were rescued from the water,” she said. “She saw the need for increased education about water safety. So, she sought permission from hospital administration to apply for a grant to put on water safety classes in Benzie area schools.”
The grant from the State Bureau of EMS, Trauma and Preparedness has helped fund education for EMS/first responders, and a week of water safety presentations to Benzie students in March. Funds also are being used to partner with the National Park Service for the Splash Into Summer Water Adventure Expo planned for June 17, and many other injury prevention initiatives.
Smith calls the award an honor, but points to others around her for their efforts as well.
“It’s easy be a hero when everyone around you is also a hero working on injury prevention,” she said. “I think it’s a great recognition on how important injury prevention is and I want to thank the hospital for allowing me to write a grant and spend time on the injury prevention initiative.”