Long term care hero

To the editor:

During May, as part of National Nursing Home Week May 11-17, the Health Care Council of Illinois (HCCI) is recognizing "heroes" of long term care facilities in Illinois – dedicated and caring staff members and residents who have made meaningful contributions to the lives of their facilities.

Heroes in long term care named from Madison County include Geno Forneris.

Geno Forneris, maintenance director at Collinsville Rehab and Health Care, is competent, active and determined, as well as friendly and helpful to the residents. He completes work efficiently and often without even being asked by the staff. Since his employment, the outside repair services have been significantly improved.

Although he has a degree in both electrical engineering and computer science that would allow for more financial success elsewhere, he believes that personal success with the facility and its clients is more important. He enjoys spending time with the residents, who have expressed that he is nice, helpful and willing to do anything they ask.

These people are shining examples of the heroes who live and work in long term care facilities throughout Illinois. They demonstrate every day a level of commitment and caring that is unsurpassed.

Pat Comstock,
Executive Director
Health Care Council of Illinois