Tuer-Hodes Family Awards presentation recognizes staff dedication, compassion and innovation

Winners of the Tuer-Hodes Family Awards are joined by members of the Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance at the presentation ceremony on May 18, 2025.

The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) hosted the Tuer-Hodes Family Awards presentation on May 16 in the June Blanch Lobby at Stratford General Hospital.

The annual event, made possible through the continued support of Donnalene and the entire Tuer-Hodes family, honours individuals whose dedication, compassion and innovation have made a lasting impact on patient care.

The awards reflect HPHA’s core commitment to people, partnerships and performance, and celebrate the organization’s ongoing pursuit of exceptional patient experiences.

Patricia (Trish) Harper received the Nursing Recognition Award for Exceptional Care, which honours a nurse who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to patient care, innovation in practice and leadership within the nursing profession.

Harper was recognized for her leadership, patient advocacy and commitment to high-quality care. Since stepping into a leadership role, she has empowered her team, improved care processes and fostered a collaborative work environment.

“She stepped into leadership with a hands-on, supportive approach that’s made a real difference,” said Lynanne Mason, vice-president of partnerships, transformation and chief nursing executive. “Her advocacy and kindness, her commitment to her colleagues and community reflect the very best in nursing leadership.”

Thelaisa Costa received the Interprofessional Practice Recognition Award for Exceptional Care, which celebrates a health disciplines team member who leads through collaboration, advocacy and engagement across teams.

“Thelaisa is known for her problem-solving skills, calm demeanour and commitment to innovation,” said Jacqui Tam, director of patient care. “She ensures lab and diagnostic tools work flawlessly across all of the HPHA sites and provides hands-on support to nursing, IT and clinical teams alike.”

In her role supporting lab systems and clinical teams, Costa is known for her thoughtful approach and dedication to innovation, helping ensure safe, reliable and efficient care behind the scenes.

The newly introduced Support Services Impact Award — which recognizes a team member whose work, though not patient-facing, significantly supports positive outcomes and quality care — was awarded posthumously to Claire Trachsel.

Ruixu Wang, director of finance and decision support, and Daniel Moutte, director of health information and IT, presented the award to Trachsel’s sister, who accepted it on her behalf.

Trachsel is remembered as a “beloved team member.”

“Claire’s dedication, reliability and warmth had a lasting impact on those who worked with her,” said Wang. “Her work helped create a smoother and more compassionate experience for patients, caregivers and colleagues alike.”

Her family was present at the ceremony to accept the award and honour her memory.