Rockville Centre, NY -- July 16, 2004 -- Everyone deserves to be recognized for their accomplishments!  With this in mind, Mercy Medical Center’s Behavioral Health Services Community Residence Program last month recognized the achievements of the mentally disabled individuals served within the residences.  The achievements range from major accomplishments such as losing 170 pounds, to a resident setting their own alarm clock in order to get up for the day without staff assistance.  Our hope is that with recognizing the everyday accomplishments that both the residents and the staff will find success in their achievements.   The focus of the event is on the small triumphs that enhance each person’s life while they are striving for attainment of their personal goals.  The Community Residence Program is comprised of three 10-bed residences and 36 supported housing apartments.

In addition to recognizing the resident’s achievements each year the Program selects someone from the community who has had a major impact on the quality of life of the people served within our Program. Some of the past recipients have been two internists who have given outstanding care to the residents and the Weight Watcher’s leader who has inspired so many of our residents to make healthy lifestyle choices.  This year’s recipient is Lucretia Nobile M.S. R.N.  Lucretia has been the Program Supervisor for the Community Residence Program since 1986.  She opened Mercy’s first group home in 1987 and has been at the forefront of the development of our entire mental health residential delivery system.  She is not afraid to take on a new challenge and welcomes the opportunity to be part of the new day at Mercy Medical Center.  Lucretia exemplifies the mission and values of the hospital and has enriched the lives of the residents and families in her care.

Media contact: Diane O'Doherty at 516-705-2619