by Gail Lambert
Irene Jones of Roanoke has been awarded the Frist Humanitarian Award for “outstanding commitment to the humanitarian values that are the foundation of HCA and LewisGale Medical Center.” The prestigious award was created in 1971 in honor of Dr. Thomas F. Frist Sr. (1910-1998) and recognizes individuals “whose dedication epitomizes the highest standards of quality and personal commitment.” The award ceremony was held at the LewisGale Medical Center, where Jones, attending as a nominee, was not only surprised at the announcement that she was the award winner, but also delighted that family members (who had been invited unbeknownst to her) were there to share in the celebration.
Jones is a volunteer who is described by patients and staff alike as “the kindest woman you will ever meet!” She volunteers twice weekly in the Preadmission testing department and Radiology where her clerical help and assistance with patients make the days run smoothly. Her spirit of friendliness and care has an amazing effect on anxious patients and their gratitude brightens the day for everyone with the good fortune to be in Jones’ department that day.
She’s also an active volunteer for the Athenian Society for the Arts and Sciences, giving her time to Center in the Square three times a month. She can be seen in a picture in the History Museum of Western Virginia Newsletter March/April 2011 issue helping at the Edward Beyer’s Virginia exhibit reception.
She’s a smiling presence at the Colonel William Preston Chapter, National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, where she greets everyone with a smile and a hug or a pat on the shoulder. She loves our country and takes part in projects that preserve our history and help hospitalized veterans.