Compassion in Action: Celebrating our July WOW winners

Each month at NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, we recognize team members who exemplify exceptional customer service through our WOW Award Program. The award honors employees who consistently go above and beyond for patients and families, often inspiring heartfelt letters, phone calls, and stories of gratitude from those we serve.

This month, we are thrilled to celebrate a very special double win for the Baruffi family of Vineland! Congratulations to in-laws Leslie Baruffi and Art Baruffi, both Spiritual Care Coordinators, for being named our July WOW Award winners. Patients and families shared numerous stories about the compassion, comfort, guidance, and emotional support Leslie and Art provided during some of life's most meaningful moments. Their dedication to caring for the spiritual and emotional needs of those facing serious illness reflects the very heart of hospice care.

As Spiritual Care Coordinators, Leslie and Art help patients and families find peace, meaning, and comfort regardless of faith tradition. Their ability to listen, support, and walk alongside families during difficult times has made a lasting impact on many lives.

"Our WOW Award recognizes team members who truly embody our mission and values through outstanding service and compassion," said Suzanne Martinelli, CEO of NJHealth Hospice and Palliative Care. "The heartfelt feedback we received about Leslie and Art speaks volumes about the extraordinary care they provide. Their dedication to supporting patients and families spiritually and emotionally is a beautiful example of hospice care at its finest. We are incredibly proud to honor them both."

Each winner received a $100 award and the appreciation of their NJHealth family. Their recognition serves as a reminder that kindness, compassion, and a listening ear can make all the difference. Please join us in congratulating Leslie Baruffi and Art Baruffi on being our July WOW Award winners!

The WOW recognitions started in February with two selected each month from the letters, calls, and emails of recognition of their care by our patients and their families.

Other WOW winners this year are

CHHAs Ruth Taylor and Margarethe Augustin;

Admissions Manager Megan Wilent and

CHHA Sean McGonigal;

RN/Case Manager Thereasa Brooks and Music Therapist Karen Melita;

CHHA Araceli Hernandez and RN/Case Manager Kristi Junket; and

On Call RN Jessica Madiraca and Massage Therapist Danielle Pace.