Not even a lake effect Syracuse blizzard could prevent Janet Sovik from caring for her patients.
When others call out, Janet clocks in. If a patient is in need, Janet is right there to help. There is no such thing as a day off in Janet’s world. She works seven days a week and will take on an extra shift if her schedule allows.
For example, when a patient was unable to administer prescription eye drops he needed twice a day to treat cataracts, Janet went to his home every morning and night to ensure he received the treatment he needed to recover, working as many hours as required to care for this man.
This is just one of many stories of Janet’s 24-year career at Nascentia Health and 82 years on Earth. One of its most dedicated and reliable home health aides, she is known and loved by her patients and her colleagues at the LHCSA.
She first worked with the Catholic Center at Syracuse University and later with a local diocese. She became a home health aide at a time when most of her peers retired. In her own words, Janet became an aide “because you’re caring for someone. You know you’re doing something good for someone that they can’t do themselves.”
She finds fulfillment in taking care of people in need, both physically and mentally. She doesn’t shy away from difficult cases and willingly cares for COVID-positive patients. She is more than a health aide; she is a friend and trusted companion.
Her manager adds: “Janet works so hard. She is as busy as a bee when she’s in a patient’s home and is an excellent communicator, always letting us know any issues her patients need addressed.”
Perhaps Janet’s relationship with her daily patient tells her story the best. Susie is a woman in her 50s with multiple sclerosis and is completely dependent on others for her care. Janet cares for her twice a day, 5 days week, including the weekends. It takes about 2.5 hours to get Susie ready with her personal hygiene needs, getting dressed, and transferring from the bed to the wheelchair. Family caregivers help during the day. Janet returns at night to help with Susie’s nightly routine and get her ready for bed.
Susie is admittedly not an easy patient to care for, but she and Janet have a special relationship. Janet says they have fun together and always laugh. Susie never complains about her condition, is happy and has a great attitude.
Is Janet thinking about retiring? Not a chance. She loves caring for people and wouldn’t want to give up the positive impact she makes each day. Being an aide keeps her busy and she wants to do this as long as possible.
Her manager sums it up: Janet is just a good person. She would do anything you needed and is someone we all count on.
HCA is pleased to confer the Caring Award to Janet Sovik, for her exemplary compassion, skills and service.