JUNE 2026
What leaders have to say about Barbara:
Barbara is an exceptionally dedicated and compassionate professional who consistently goes above and beyond in her commitment to patient care. Her unwavering work ethic and genuine empathy make a profound impact not only on her patients, but also on the staff she supports every day. She demonstrates extraordinary dedication by making herself available to patients in times of crisis, ensuring they receive both the clinical care and emotional support they need. Most recently, Barbara exemplified the true spirit of hospice care by sitting at a patient’s bedside to provide comfort during their final moments, ensuring they did not pass alone. This act speaks volumes about her character, compassion, and deep respect for the dignity of those she serves. Barbara is also highly knowledgeable in hospice regulations and care practices, and she generously shares her expertise with colleagues. She consistently supports staff by guiding them in best practices, fostering a culture of excellence, and strengthening the quality of care across the team. Barbara’s dedication, expertise, and compassion make her truly deserving of this award. She is an invaluable asset and an inspiring example of what it means to provide exceptional patient-centered care
What does being a Gold Standard Award honoree mean to you?
Being a Gold Standard Award honoree means that we are seen, I am seen. Our daily work does not go unnoticed. I don’t do this job at Anchor by myself. I have a team alongside me, and I call our team, “Team Supreme the East Bay Team. As a manager, you try to do your best to make the job easier for those out in the field. You get good at this position through years of overcoming the obstacles you encounter, dealing with the complaints, concerns and issues that arise, resolving the conflicts that come along with hospice care. It is not an easy job, it is emotional and draining, but it is also incredibly impactful as you are stripped back to the most genuine, vulnerable layers you possess, where ego has no place and humility serves you best. Your presence, patience and time are what you give. Hospice has afforded me the greatest character building experience and opportunity of my life. I am proud to make a difference.
What is a valuable lesson you’ve learned from working in your field?
I have worked in many areas of acute care nursing but hospice care has been my passion. Just like the birth of a child, the death of an individual carries a legacy. We as hospice providers are invitees into ones “death legacy or journey”. We have a duty to tread lightly and not stain this legacy in any way, remembering always, this is their story, we are privileged and honored to be a part of it. This takes, leaving your baggage at the door and not bring any negativity into their sacred space. In hospice care you truly learn to put others first.
What guidance or words of wisdom would you share with those who want to follow a similar path to yours?
Your heart may lead you to nursing, but hospice care is greater than just the pursuit of a career. It is a calling. It is something from inside that gives you the perseverance to be there for others at the most difficult times in life. I have felt no greater reward than to hold someone’s hand up to their death and be that support for their families. You don’t choose hospice nursing, hospice nursing chooses you. I thank you for your recognition of my efforts.
