Betty Bianchi, activity aide at Birchaven Village, a division of Blanchard Valley Health System, has been selected by the Ohio Health Care Association (OHCA) as its Hero of Long-Term Care for May 2019. OHCA honors one long-term care employee each month for their service to long-term caregivers, residents and the community.

Bianchi will be featured on the OHCA website (ohca.org) during the month of May and recognized at the Association’s 2020 Annual Convention in Columbus, Ohio.

Rebecca Adams, activity coordinator at Birchaven who nominated Bianchi for the honor, says that Bianchi is passionate about serving the facility’s residents and the community.

"Betty has earned a great deal of respect from residents, co-workers and families," said Adams. "She makes it her job to be aware of their personal preferences, including likes and dislikes and the stories that each one shares.”

Adams says that Bianchi's understanding of resident and families as well as her role make her a unique asset.

"It can be difficult to understand what we actually do, and why," said Adams. "One night, Betty wrote some words that put it all into perspective, ending with 'I can't do anything about what they've lost, and I certainly can't give them tomorrow, but I can give them today.' This perfectly described the importance of the activity department."

Bianchi has been with Birchaven for 11 years and previously worked as a teaching assistant in the school system. In addition to her time at the facility, she volunteers for several community groups and activities.

"Betty is admired for her courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities. She is a teacher and a peacemaker," Adams said. "Betty garners trust and respect from her co-workers by extending it to them first. She is truly our ‘Hero of Long-Term Care!’"

Birchaven Village provides a continuum of care to seniors living in Hancock County and surrounding communities. The campus includes assisted and independent living apartments, rehabilitation services as well as long-term and memory care. The facility is located at 15100 Birchaven Lane, Findlay, Ohio and can be reached by calling 419.424.3000. Additional information is available online at birchaven.org.