Kansas City, MO — Bickford of Aurora Health & Wellness Director Bonnie Ryan was recently honored as one of three nominees for 2023 Health & Wellness Director of the year at the company’s annual Pearl Ceremony in Kansas City. As part of the annual awards ceremony, Bickford headquarters sent a video crew to capture Aurora’s residents and resident family members talking about the impact she’s had on them, and why she deserves the recognition. Here’s what they had to say. Congratulations, Bonnie! We’re proud to have you on our team.

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Greg School: Bonnie always has a way of putting a personal touch on is one of the reasons I like sitting down with her. She’s always called my mom, mom. But I’ve never ever seen her not work. I think she is a tireless worker for this facility and for all the people like my mom that are here. I really appreciate all the extra care and the tenderness you provide. You’re very worthy of this honor, and I hope you get it.

Beverly Graham: She’s got a lot of balls that she juggles in the air. Very busy woman always on the run. But she does it gracefully and with a smile. She goes above and beyond what was expected. If you need help, you can always rest assured you can go to Bonnie and you’ll get a result.

Erin Eldridge: Oh, she’s wonderful. She is available when you need her. She’s so patient with my mom whenever my mom needs needs a little talking down because she’s having a difficult time. She’s in hospice so she’s coming toward the end, and it’s kind of a scary time. And Bonnie’s very, very sweet and empathetic. Her kindness, her patience, she’s just such a good listener.

Margaret Kinzer: Well, Bonnie is fabulous. The reason I really like her is because she’s so friendly and accommodating, willing to help you in every way that she can. She seems to be tireless and very faithful and we all love her here at Bickford and are so lucky to have her. There were times when they didn’t have enough overnight help and she’d be there all night working after her day of work in the office. Even if she’s busy, she’ll look up and say, hi, Margaret. How are you today? And it just makes us all feel like we’re part of a family here. Bonnie, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. And I hope you’ll always be here with us.

Lois McDonough: Bonnie cares, and it’s the caring that means something. She will go to far extent for any problem you have.

Midred Facehinello: Bonnie, you’re such a sweet lady. And I know you’ll go above and beyond no matter what just because you know that’s what’s the proper thing to do and what you want to do.