Derek Neary
Northern News Services

Fort Providence (Jan 14/00) - Walking into the Fort Providence Health Centre for the first time, you might be hard pressed to figure out Oscar Lefoin's job title.

You might find him changing a light bulb or mopping the floor. Then again, you may notice him taking X-rays or escorting patients into or out of the facility. There's not much he can't do, even making a good cup of coffee is not out of the question.

"Yeah sure," he responded when asked if he has a knack for that too.

Lefoin, who has been working as the "custodian" at the health centre since 1987, was named Deh Cho Health and Social Services' inaugural employee of the year last week.

He was selected not only because he fulfils his job description admirably, but because he goes above and beyond the call of duty (with a smile on his face).

He goes along on home visits, translates for Dene clients, reminds patients of their appointments and keeps an eye on supply levels, fixes mechanical problems or arranges to get them taken care of and he clears the snow.

"There's a lot of things to do," said Lefoin. "I enjoy it over there."

"He's dedicated, he's motivated, (and) he's always pleasant to be around," said Kathy Tsetso, CEO of Deh Cho Health and Social Services. "He goes the extra mile."

Some people are astounded to discover that he can do X-rays. That's something he learned from some nurses several years ago, he explained. He even did a series of them for a doctor during an arthritis study a few years ago.

"Once you get it down, it comes easy," he said.

Sheila Sears, manager of nurses, noted that doctors in Yellowknife have commented on how good Lefoin's handiwork is when it comes time for them to read the X-rays.

While presenting Lefoin with a new Deh Cho Health and Social Services' jacket, board trustee Margaret Thom said, "I hear you are the best X-ray technician this side of the Northwest Territories."

Lefoin said he enjoys his job because it poses a variety of challenges and he meets a lot of people. In Fort Providence, he has earned himself an honourary title.

"That's what they call me, Doctor Lefoin," he said, laughing.

Friday's award presentation, which was kept secret, caught him off guard.

"No, that was quite a surprise. I was kind of honoured to receive such recognition," he said.

During the ceremony, a co-worker asked him how he came to be such an exemplary employee.

"You just have to put a little more extra effort to make things shine," he replied.