On Jan. 29, the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaii presented Ann Usagawa with its Extraordinary Service Award for her exemplary service and dedication as a social worker in Hilo Medical Center’s Emergency Room.
On Jan. 29, the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaii presented Ann Usagawa with its Extraordinary Service Award for her exemplary service and dedication as a social worker in Hilo Medical Center’s Emergency Room.
ER doctors and other HMC personnel attended the awards luncheon, along with Aloha Exchange Club members and Hawaii Police Department.
ER Nurse Cindy Drummond said Usagawa was like a guardian angel for many patients.
“When most would give up, Ann tried harder,” Drummond said. “She always seems to find a solution, whether it be placement for the homeless or transportation back to the mainland for ill visitors.”
Usagawa’s peers describe her as humble, compassionate, kind, respectful, calm, resourceful and effective. Usagawa retired from HMC at the end of 2015 and delayed retirement to train others.
Jeanine Acia, East Hawaii’s Visitors Assistance Services of Hawaii director, added that Usagawa did amazing work for mainland visitors who unexpectedly ended up in the ER. She said Usagawa was well-deserving of the recognition for her extraordinary collaboration and service.
For more information about the Aloha Exchange Club of East Hawaii, contact Charlene Iboshi at CiAlohaAdvocate@yahoo.com.