Nomination Letter

Written by Tammara Brown, Co-owner, BrightStar Care of Salt Lake City East

Deborah is an amazing DON, but she is so much more than that. Deborah, who we often refer to as our ‘secret weapon’, has dedicated her life’s work to providing for the geriatric community. She worked on the insurance side for many years, working for Select Health and Aetna, but found herself mostly in an office and she missed being out in the field meeting the clients and families. Prior to that she managed care in homes for the state of Hawaii and loved that. She wanted to be back out with the people! BrightStar Care was a great fit for her; something new, but something she was so passionate about.

It’s true Deborah cares immensely for our clients and their families. She also cares about our field staff, she is an advocate for them in every way. When she came on board she took over the education and in-service program for field staff. She developed relevant topics and invited guest speakers. She developed a training program for staff that is hard to find in other agencies. Each month she delivers, Connections, End of Life, Transitional Care, and CNA Nursing Delegations to staff. In 2016 she developed a “Career Ladders” program as a way for field staff to grow, receive leadership opportunities, additional education, and raises. She developed a speaker series, bringing in new experts in every few months. Deborah has been dedicated to helping shape our company culture into a place where not only clients receive the best care, but employees receive the best as well. She is advocating for our field staff every day.
 
Deborah never stops learning. She is always taking a class, or certificate or program, and is always looking for an opportunity to pass that knowledge on. Most recently Deborah became a PAC Certified Trainer and is a VDT certified facilitator. She has created Community Connections training programs for the community, client families, and facility partners. She has her Bachelor's and Master's degrees as well as several certificates.
 
Even though much of Deborah’s time is spent training, networking, coaching and supervising, her favorite place is still on the couch with a client in their home. Listening to their life stories, sharing experiences, or holding their hand when they pass on from this life.

Our clients also have great things to say about Deborah:

“Deborah Parker is extremely helpful, always accessible, and always goes the extra mile, including developing a personal relationship with our sister. Deborah's unselfish assistance has been invaluable. She is skillfully guiding us through the maze of health care options and programs as we try to help our sister make important decisions.”
 
“Deborah is an excellent resource and great to have in your court.”
 
We feel the same about Deborah and we are privileged to have her in our court.