FARMINGTON – Gerald Cayer, executive vice president, has been named Caregiver of the Year for Franklin Memorial Hospital.
Rebecca Arsenault, the hospital’s president/CEO, made the surprise announcement during a recent manager’s meeting, praising his leadership in addressing domestic violence and his operational support of the medical staff, clinical teams, and line staff in driving safety and quality outcomes.
“This annual award honors a caregiver who on a daily basis demonstrates extraordinary commitment to the delivery of care to patients and their families,” said Arsenault. “Each hospital is allowed only one applicant to be considered for statewide recognition, so being nominated is truly an honor.”
Four years ago when several nearby domestic violence homicides took place, Cayer led a local campaign in Franklin County organizing men and boys to take a stand against domestic violence. Since that time, awareness events take place annually to continue to engage the community in creating social change for domestic violence.
In addition, his nomination cited that although he is not a direct caregiver, he supports the clinical team of doctors, nurses and other caregivers through safety and quality advocacy and operational support, which is reflected by Franklin Memorial Hospital being awarded an “A” grade in the spring 2015 Hospital Safety Score.
Another representation of the organization’s ongoing commitment to domestic violence awareness is a NorthStar ambulance, painted at Cayer’s request, in a purple-and-white color scheme to bring awareness to domestic violence. It is detailed with multiple shades of purple with symbolic over-sized ribbons, along with the area’s domestic violence helpline number. This vehicle is believed to be the first domestic violence awareness ambulance in the country.
“Police have reported that having local resources available and supporting awareness increases reports of domestic violence,” Cayer said. “This is an important step in breaking the chain of violence.”
Most recently and currently on display at Franklin Memorial Hospital, is the Portraits of Courage exhibit that features 16 paintings created by artist Penny Hood. These portraits are of victims of sexual assault and domestic violence who break the silence and tell their story.
Cayer was the 2011 recipient of Safe Voices Community Hero Award. His public service work is vast and a sampling includes: Safe Voices Franklin County Task Force, University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) Board of Visitors, DHHS and Maine Hospital Association Licensing Reform Committee, the Muskie School MPH Advisory Committee, and past board chair of the American Lung Association.
Cayer is a native of Lewiston who now resides in Waterville with his wife Tami and their three children: Chelsea, Ethan, and Annie.
This award is so very well deserved. Jerry is indeed a caregiver, exceptionally dedicated and kind. His commitment to the ongoing work to stop domestic violence has been steadfast, and over and above all of his other responsibilities.
Well deserved to a man who truely cares and gives to the community, hospital, patients and fellow workers. Congrats, Jerry
Congratulations Jerry! This is an important recognition and one very well deserved!
Well done Jerry.Congrats
Jerry is a tremendous example of one who gives himself wholeheartedly to his community – above and beyond all of his other commitments to family and work. Congratulations Jerry – nice to see you receive some recognition for your generosity and compassion. It is a pleasure to work with you. TD
Congrats Jerry from over the big pond! ….Well deserved!
Congratulations Jerry. Well deserved!