Smith Family Funeral names Tina Robbins Willow Award Honoree

By arhospice on November 20th, 2024

Earlier this year, Arkansas Hospice’s Tina Robbins, a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), was honored with the prestigious Willow Award, which recognizes outstanding service and dedication in providing excellence in end-of-life care.

Presented by Smith Family Funeral Homes, this award is not just a token of appreciation but a symbol of the respect and gratitude for the caregivers who go above and beyond in their duties. The award was created during the COVID pandemic when the need to honor medical personnel became evident. However, the team at Smith Family Funeral realized that end-of-life caregivers, who work tirelessly behind the scenes, also deserve significant recognition. Named after the willow tree, the award symbolizes resilience and flexibility, qualities that are intrinsic to caregiving. These caregivers, like the willow, bend and adapt to the challenges they face, always standing strong for their patients and families.

Tina’s unwavering commitment and heartfelt dedication have made a profound impact on the lives of those she serves. The award not only celebrates her achievements but also highlights the importance of recognizing the tireless efforts of all end-of-life caregivers.

Tina Robbins: A Committed CNA

As the nomination letter from Arkansas Hospice office coordinator Bonnie Siepert states, Tina Robbins’ tenure with Arkansas Hospice has been marked by her extraordinary dedication and empathy. Since joining Arkansas Hospice, she has consistently exceeded expectations in providing care and support. One particularly poignant example of her commitment is her work with an 18-year-old pediatric patient whose mother needed additional help.

Initially hesitant, Tina soon developed a strong, compassionate bond with the young patient. She ensured he was always well-stocked with necessary supplies and maintained his hygiene meticulously. Her dedication went beyond her scheduled visits; she often checked in on the patient and his family even on her days off and weekends, showing her deep concern for their well-being.

Tina’s efforts were not limited to physical care; she also provided invaluable emotional support. The patient’s mother was profoundly grateful for Tina’s care and frequently praised her for the comfort and relief she brought to their lives. Tina’s ability to connect on a personal level with her patients and their families truly sets her apart.

Her actions reflect the core values of Arkansas Hospice, showcasing not just professional competence but also genuine compassion and kindness. Tina’s unwavering dedication and heartfelt care make her a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional CNA. Her work has left a lasting impact on those she serves, illustrating the profound difference that a committed caregiver can make.

Jeff Smith’s Relationship with Arkansas Hospice

Jeff Smith, President of Smith Family Funeral Homes, has a long-standing relationship with Arkansas Hospice that is deeply personal and rooted in long-standing family ties. The relationship began when Michael Aureli, the founder of Arkansas Hospice, formed a close friendship with Jeff’s father. Jeff’s father played a pivotal role in supporting the establishment of Arkansas Hospice, which speaks volumes about the Smith family’s commitment to end-of-life care from the very beginning. When Michael Aureli passed away, it was the Smith family who had the honor of handling his services, further cementing this bond. This history is not just professional but deeply personal, as Jeff’s own family has benefited from Arkansas Hospice’s compassionate care. His grandfather and aunt were both patients of Arkansas Hospice, which provided them with exceptional care during their final days. These personal experiences have given Jeff a profound appreciation for the work done by Arkansas Hospice, making the Willow Award presentation incredibly meaningful. Jeff’s enduring relationship with the hospice exemplifies a shared commitment to providing comfort and dignity at the end of life, and this connection makes recognizing outstanding caregivers like Tina Robbins all the more significant. The Smith family’s ongoing support for Arkansas Hospice is a testament to their unwavering dedication to compassionate end-of-life care.

If you would like to nominate someone or learn more about the Willow Award, visit SmithFamilyCares.com/Willow-Award.