As part of National Respiratory Therapy Week, we are proud to announce this year’s recipient of the prestigious PHIL Award: Cara Russell! Cara is a dedicated respiratory therapist who recently celebrated her 20th service anniversary at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital.
The Phil Award, named in memory of Philip Lamka, recognizes a respiratory therapist who exemplifies outstanding patient care and compassion, aligning with Ranken Jordan’s core values. Cara embodies these values in her daily work, ensuring her patients not only breathe easier but also feel truly cared for.
The PHIL Award: A Legacy of Compassion
The FACES foundation was founded in 2006 in memory of Philip Lamka.
Phil courageously lived with lung disease for three years. In the final weeks of his life, his wife Sharman needed to bring some meaning to their profound sadness. They wanted to help other patients facing threating lung diseases while also celebrating the respiratory therapists who dedicated their professions to help those patients breathe easier.
With that, the FACES Foundation was formed as well as the PHIL Award, which stands for Pulmonary Health & Illness of the Lungs.
This exemplary professional sees the person instead of the patient and is committed to the belief that every breath matters.
Cara: A Shining Example of Excellence
This year, Cara stood out with overwhelming nominations from her peers, reflecting her dedication, positive attitude, and unwavering support for her patients and colleagues.
Lisa Deady, unit secretary, shared: “Cara is always on top of things, thinking proactively. She not only cares for ALL of our patients, but continually helps her co-workers with anything and everything. She is more than deserving of this award!”
From her start as a nurse assistant to her current role as a respiratory therapist, Cara has been a steadfast presence at Ranken Jordan, always putting patients first. Another tenured colleague and physical therapist, Sally Katz, noted: “I’ve watched Cara grow from a nurse assistant to an amazing respiratory therapist who places patient care at the forefront, ensuring every need is met.”
Going Above and Beyond
Cara’s commitment doesn’t stop at patient care; her proactive approach and willingness to help her team make her an invaluable asset. Liz Walplehorst, the therapy educator, mentioned: “Even when Cara is busy with her own caseload, I constantly see her checking in on her team members to see if they need help with anything.”
Cara’s ability to balance her responsibilities with a sense of humor and joy is what truly sets her apart. As Jessica Derhake, housekeeping and laundry associate, puts it: “Cara’s positive attitude makes every day a good day. She is such a hard worker and a great asset to the hospital and the kids.”
Every Breath Matters
In a profession where every breath matters, Cara has spent two decades helping Ranken Jordan’s patients and staff breathe easier. Her dedication to respiratory therapy, her patients, and her colleagues is an inspiration to all of us.
As we celebrate National Respiratory Therapy Week, we are reminded of the profound impact respiratory therapists like Cara have on our hospital community. Thank you, Cara, for all that you do and going the extra mile for every single breath. You truly embody the spirit of the PHIL Award and Ranken Jordan’s mission, vision, and values.
Congratulations, Cara!
