Community Award Recognizes UTMC Mental Health Aide

November 9, 2021 | News, UToday, UTMC
By Tyrel Linkhorn



Tabatha Johnson has spent the COVID-19 pandemic working as a mental health aide at The University of Toledo Medical Center’s Senior Behavioral Health program and studying to become to be a registered nurse.

On Friday her passion for caring for others and dedication to the healthcare field and was recognized with the CareGivers 360 award.

Tabatha Johnson stands in front of Jeep prize

Tabatha Johnson, a state-tested nursing assistant at UTMC, stands in front of the Jeep Grand Cherokee L she gets to use for the day as part of the prize package for being recognized with the CareGivers 360 award.

“It feels really good knowing that someone else noticed how I’m caring for my patients and making a difference in their daily lives,” said Johnson, a state tested nursing assistant. “I love being part of our program, seeing the process and getting someone back to their baseline and back to their life.”

Johnson’s award, presented by Steve Reamey, clinical liaison at Advance Specialty Hospital in Toledo and the creator of the award program, caps off a six-month campaign to honor and give back to local caregivers who have been working through the pandemic.

In addition to the use of a new Jeep Grand Cherokee L for the day, Johnson’s prize package included a spa day, a downtown hotel stay, a dinner for two, jewelry and more — all donated by local businesses.

Johnson, who has worked at UTMC for four years, expects to complete her RN program in December. She hopes to land a job at UTMC, perhaps even remaining at the Kobacker Center.

“I want to stay at UToledo for sure,” she said. “This hospital is basically like a home to me.”

Johnson is the second UTMC employee to be recognized by Caregivers 360. Jessica Cantrell, a clinical lead nurse in the critical care unit, was recognized in June.

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