I would like to acknowledge the outstanding contribution to orthopedic care provided by Charlene. A recent trauma patient had sustained horrific open wounds of her right anterior lower leg as well as a comminuted right femur fracture in a severe accident. During the time Charlene was caring for the patient and her family, she struck up strong personal connections with the patient's family to the degree that Charlene made a personal visit on her own time to the SNF to visit the patient and family. Charlene was aghast when she saw that the patient was developing a full-thickness necrosis with black areas over the right calf avulsion wound. Charlene had the foresight to obtain photos of the wound which were shared with me (following confidentiality).

We advised the family as well as the SNF to send the patient urgently to the hospital for necessary wound care and surgical debridement. Fortunately the majority of the leg's wounds continue to heal very well and she has no signs of infection. If Charlene had not intervened on behalf of this patient, the problem of wound necrosis and possible deep infection would not have been recognized and would have seriously compromised the patient's overall well-being and recovery.

Charlene is a passionate advocate for her patients, has very good wisdom and judgment in assessing them, is proactive and resourceful and professionally appropriate in the way she seeks to advocate for her patients, working cooperatively with MDs and staff.