The Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) honored Ron Chavis, a former resident at Brynwood Health and Rehabilitation Center in Monticello, with this year’s Joe Negron Resident of the Year Award at the 2024 Annual Conference & Trade Show in Orlando, Florida.
Chavis had a difficultly adjusting when he first came to Brynwood Health and Rehabilitation Center (Brynwood) and lacked the desire to be involved or engaged in any activities or form connections with staff or fellow residents. With the help of a Brynwood certified nursing assistant, Chavis began to come out of his shell, his personal motivation started to blossom, and soon he was committed to helping other residents come into their own.
“Mr. Chavis made it his mission to make sure the residents felt welcome and accepted. As he worked to overcome his own challenges, he promised himself that he would do whatever he could to encourage his fellow residents and mentor those who felt disengaged,” said Tiwana Miller, Activities Director for Brynwood Health and Rehabilitation Center. “The progress he made to regain his independence is nothing short of a miracle, and we’re so excited for the recognition he’s receiving.”
Within months of arriving at Brynwood Health, Chavis became the Resident Council President. He regularly volunteered to host the resident exercise class and call bingo games in the dining room. Chavis always embraced the events, programming, and activities that promote the quality of life for himself and his fellow residents. After living at Brynwood for more than five years, Chavis recently become strong enough to be discharged from the center and return back to his Monticello home.
“We are so pleased to honor Mr. Chavis with this year’s Joe Negron Resident of the Year Award,” said Emmett Reed, CEO of FHCA. “He is a shining example that life is what you make it, and it’s apparent every day that Mr. Chavis intends to make his life and the lives of those around him full of joy and kindness. It is always our hope that each of our long-term care communities has someone like Mr. Chavis promoting excitement and respect among staff and residents.”
The annual Joe Negron Resident of the Year Award is named after Florida Senator Joe Negron who was a long-time champion for Florida nursing home residents. This award recognizes an outstanding nursing home or assisted living facility resident who is making real contributions to the well-being of fellow residents and the long-term care community.
The Joe Negron Resident of the Year Award is part of FHCA’s annual Long Term Care Achievement Awards which honor the exemplary contributions of long-term care leaders and volunteers who daily demonstrate commitment to quality care through their dedication to residents, staff, and the long-term care profession. Awards are presented during the FHCA Annual Conference & Trade Show.
