I have been coming to the VA since 2011, and I have never had such an exceptional nurse as Celeste Griffith. Years back, I had a stroke, shortly after I had come to the Wytheville clinic for my appointment, and wasn’t doing the best. Everyone thought I was having a mental health decline, but Celeste wasn’t willing to accept that. She fought for me; she looked into things and helped to make the connection that the symptoms I was experiencing were actually because of the stroke that I had, and not my mental health. I started having frequent visits with Celeste, and through those visits, I was able to establish trust with her. There was a period of time when I got very anxious when I had to come to the clinic and see the doctor. Celeste would take her time with me and help me during those visits. I felt comfortable with the provider, and just knowing Celeste was in the building was good for me. When my next decline came, people would say just go to the nursing home. Again, Celeste took the time to listen to me; she knew that wasn’t what I wanted. So, she started seeing me more frequently, helped me work through problems, and I was able to stay in my own home. Because of Celeste’s continued support, help, kindness, and determination to fight for what I wanted, I was able to get my life back after my stroke. In my opinion, she deserves more than just this simple award.

Integrity: She was always honest with me
Commitment: Time and commitment to health, never gave up on me.
Advocacy: Advocated for me with providers at Wytheville and Salem.
Respect: Listened and explained things in “my terms”, gave me answers to questions, and made me feel respected.
Excellence: She continues to help me, an expert in all areas of her job