December 2006

Elizabeth Byzdra-Paczkowksi

Pharmacy Technician, The Cancer Center

Star Performer, Elizabeth Byzdra-Paczkowksi A giving person of her time, talents, and resources, both at work and in the community," is how co-workers describe Elizabeth Byzdra-Paczkowksi, our December Star Performer of the Month.

Elizabeth has been a Pharmacy Technician with LGH for eight years. She is known for her warm personality and "heart of gold" when working with patients and co-workers. Elizabeth starts each and every morning greeting staff with "Dzien dobry" (good morning) in her native language of Polish, before she makes coffee for all of The Cancer Center patients.

Kim Walk, R.Ph., says that Elizabeth's dedication to her work and compassion is a trademark of her personality. Elizabeth makes note of patients with Polish-sounding last names, to try and make them feel at home when they are anxiously awaiting treatment.

For example, one day a new patient was very anxious about treatment, and Kim found Elizabeth holding his hand and singing songs in Polish. "She made this patient's first day here much better than he ever expected," says Kim.

Elizabeth shows this same sense of dedication to her coworkers by helping train new technicians. She takes an active role in improving procedures, and is known as a "stickler" for having a clean work environment. Bob Ritchie, Director of the Pharmacy Department, says that Elizabeth is known for being "one-step ahead" in preparing patient's pre-medications making busy days a lot smoother. "She is very thorough, accurate, and timely in medication preparation," says Bob.

Elizabeth lives in Tewksbury, is very involved in her church, and enjoys watching the Boston Red Sox.

Congratulations, Elizabeth. You're a Star!