Michelle DaCruz
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (June 19/02) - Stanton Regional Health Authority's long service award tea honoured 30 employees for their dedication to the health of NWT residents.

Dr. Ross Wheeler enjoys some chocolate cake with lots of sticky icing at Stanton Regional Health Authority's long service tea. Wheeler has devoted 30 years of service to Stanton. - Michelle DaCruz/NNSL photo

"All combined these employees have contributed a total of 410 years of service," said Dennis Cleaver, executive director of Stanton Regional Health Authority.

Dr. Ross Wheeler was honoured for 30 years of service as a psychiatrist and addictions specialist at the hospital.

"At the bedside or in the office we all contribute to the sacred duty the creator has given to us," said Wheeler. "I am privileged to be part of the team."

Wheeler was honoured with $100 gift certificate and the first gold pin to bear the new name, "Stanton Territorial Health Authority."

Cleaver thanked the employees for their dedication.

"I want to express my appreciation for the many years of community service and professionalism that our staff provide to the territory," said Cleaver.

Catherine Patton, honoured for 10 years as an oncology nurse in the medical day care unit, happily displayed her bronze pin, framed photo of the hospital and recognition certificate.

"Ten years has really flown by," said Patton. "I've had opportunities here that I would not have had anywhere else."

Employees were honoured for between 10 and 30 years of service.