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Deb Kinney, Therapy Services, was recently selected by co-workers as the 2016 Shining Star of the Year at Pella Regional Health Center.

Kinney, resident of Pella, was Shining Star of the Month in September. Shining Star is a reward and recognition program at Pella Regional designed to acknowledge an employee each month that demonstrates outstanding standards of behavior and inspires others to do their best. At the end of the year one of the Shining Star of the Month recipients is then chosen by Pella Regional employees as Shining Star of the Year.

An excerpt from her nomination form said:
“Over the years I have observed Deb up on the inpatient floor walking patients and instructing them on getting out of bed; always making sure her pace matches theirs. She never appears rushed or discouraged with her patient’s progress. She is always smiling and giving them courage. I never realized what a gem she really was until my daughter had a massive stroke and she worked with Deb. Not only did Deb’s professionalism shine as I saw her work on the physical aspect of gaining strength and movement but also showed my daughter how to believe in herself again. She gave her hope, caring, strength and motivation.”

Kinney receives an Employee of the Year plaque and a $250 gift.