November Ambassador ‘is the glue that holds the ED team together’

Jessica Lewis' colleagues in the Reid Health Emergency Department hold nothing back in their praise of her.

"She is one of the backbones of the Emergency Department. She works behind the scenes every single day and deserves to be recognized for all the hard work she does for us."

"Jessica is a positive light that radiates to those she encounters. Her empathy and genuine compassion are exhibited every day."

"She is the glue that holds the ED team together!"

Reid's November Ambassador joined the organization more than four years ago and has served as the Emergency Services Secretary ever since.

"I chose Reid because its mission aligned closely with my professional goals," Lewis said. "When I started at Reid, I was completing a degree in psychology and had plans -- and still have plans -- to become a counselor. Therapists have a lifelong commitment to serve their communities to create a better society. That includes devoting time to advocate for others and to be inclusive of diversity inside and outside of the therapy room.

"Reid continues to evolve to meet the needs of our community, and I wanted to be part of an organization that fell in line with some of my core beliefs."

Co-workers say Lewis has a talent for creative staff celebrations and boosting morale. She's there to cheer them on through the good times and hug them and be a good listener through the bad. Lewis says they do the same for her.

"My co-workers make sure I know how appreciated I am every day. They've supported me professionally and personally," she said. "I love that this organization supports people's strengths but also helps guide us in areas that need help. I have grown in this position professionally and personally, and it takes a special type of environment to allow for that.

"I tell someone at least once a week I love my job, and I mean it. Every time I see staff in the ED rushing around to take care of patients, it brings me to tears because I'm so proud to work with people who save lives."

"Jessica is a positive light that radiates to those she encounters. Her empathy and genuine compassion are exhibited every day." -- Co-worker

Lewis lives in Richmond with her husband, Aaron, and their two children -- Nora, 4, and Nash, 2. They enjoy going to museums, being outdoors, and playing board and card games.

"I hope when people know me, they see someone who lives a life to glorify God," Lewis said. "Part of that, for me, is loving people and serving people the way Jesus would. My relationship with God is a big part of who I am today and what leads me in my life."

"Jessica is a godsend to the staff and management of the Emergency Department," a co-worker said. "When you think about all the shifts and number of employees she deals with, you realize how much she deserves this award. She is truly amazing."