Health and Fitness : Sauer retires after 42 years of service

Leeann Sauer, an LPN for Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab has retired after 42 years of service. She was the longest-serving nurse at VGNR.

"She dedicated her life to making the resident's lives better. Leeann has always gone the extra mile by spending time with residents, making them something that would make them smile-often on her own time. No matter what circumstance she was presented with, she led with her heart to give the best care. Leeann will leave a big hole to fill in our staff and in our hearts, but we wish her well as she beings this new chapter in her life," said the Director of Long Term Care, Jessica Henkle.

Her brother Pete added, "As a family, we have missed her during holidays, birthdays and family celebrations as she has always worked 3rd shift and was usually sleeping as we get together. So many families over the years have thanked us for having such an awesome caring sister who is taking care of their loved ones. The stories we have heard and all the laughter of stories told will always be a great memory of her work. It's not an easy job to work in a field where you care and give unconditional love and compassion knowing tomorrow that relationship could be gone, and yes, that is the worst part of the job."

A dedicated worker is hard to find in any line of work, but a blessing when you find a hard worker that loves her job as Leeann did. She left with a thank you to VGNR which said, "Working at Virginia Gay Nursing and Rehab taught me to take the time to listen to and communicate with residents. To learn their life stories and know the things they like. That a smile and a kind word or just the smallest simple thing may brighten their day. I have learned so many things from residents and coworkers through the years. It has been an honor to work with everyone in all departments- present and past. I have so many memories stored in my heart that I will cherish forever. "

Congratulations on your retirement Leeann!