Photo submitted to Times Observer Steven Smith, Director of Rehabilitation, Deanna Beyer, PT, BEE Award Winner, and Richard Allen, CEO.

Warren General Hospital has recognized Deanna Beyer, a dedicated Physical Therapist, as the 12th recipient of the BEE Award for Being Exceptional Every Day.

Beyer received the honor on February 4, 2025, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to patient care and rehabilitation. Beyer was nominated by Michelle Greene, a patient in the hospital’s Physical Therapy Department. Greene shared her experience in her nomination letter, praising Beyer’s expertise, compassion, and commitment to patient recovery.

“I recently had a total knee replacement and immediately started Physical Therapy at Rehab Works. I was originally evaluated by Deanna Beyer, who quickly developed a therapy plan. Throughout my sessions, I worked with multiple therapists, which I appreciated because I could learn different exercises and stretching techniques to regain mobility and range of motion,” Greene wrote.

While Greene expressed admiration for all of the therapists at WGH Rehab Works, she emphasized that Beyer stood out in an exceptional way.

“Out of all the competent therapists, Deanna Beyer went the extra mile. She utilized educational materials to explain different aspects of therapy and introduced new exercises as I progressed.

On several occasions, she adjusted the therapy regimen to address weaknesses, using manual pressure and a roller to stretch my muscles,” Greene continued. “She is upbeat, encouraging, and incredibly knowledgeable. When I jokingly referred to her therapy as ‘working magic,’ she credited her 30 years of experience. It shows! Even though she has many patients, she made me feel like my recovery was her top priority.”

The BEE Award was created to honor hospital employees who are not licensed nurses but who play a critical role in patient care and hospital operations. It was developed by WGH nursing leadership to complement the DAISY Award, which recognizes extraordinary nurses.

Award recipients are selected by a committee at WGH and honored during a special ceremony attended by colleagues, patients, and visitors. Each honoree receives: a certificate of recognition for Being Exceptional Every Day, a BEE Award pin, a gift card to the hospital’s Window Box gift shop, four free cafeteria lunches, an eight-hour award day off, and a a Bumble Bee Jasper crystal, a stone found only at Mount Papandayan in Indonesia.

emphasized the importance of recognizing outstanding employees.

“It is important that our employees know their work is highly valued, and the BEE Award program allows us to show that appreciation,” said Rick Allen, hospital CEO.

Melissa Shaffer, WGH’s Director of Nursing, echoed his sentiments.

“We are proud to recognize our exceptional healthcare workers. They are everyday heroes, and this award helps ensure they know how much we appreciate their dedication,” Shaffer said.

For more information about the BEE Award and how to nominate a deserving WGH employee, visit Warren General Hospital or contact the hospital’s administration office.