Debra Margraves named Nurse of the Year

Published or Revised May 07, 2010

"Caring Today for a Healthier Tomorrow" is the 2010 national theme for Nurses Week, and it was marked on May 4 at Paris Junior College with the presentation of the Lamar County Nurse of the Year Award. John Spradling, vice president of workforce education, presented the 2010 Nurse of the Year award to Debra Margraves of Paris. Margraves has been a nurse for over 20 years, serving in medical-surgical ICU, interventional radiology, hospice, and behavioral medicine. Spradling recognized her for years of service to patients and their families in Lamar County. PJC Health Occupations Director Marcia Putnam shared comments from coworkers of the honoree, stating, "She is compassionate, caring, conscientious, and understanding; has never forgotten why she became a nurse; can laugh and rejoice with the patients and families; and offers comfort to grieving families." Margraves was joined in celebrating the award by her husband, Joe Bob; her parents, Bill and Jean Canaday; and close friends, Lloyd and Pat Miller. Following the award ceremony, Danise Petticrew, PJC nursing instructor, presented a nursing continuing education program, "From Space Research to the Patient Bedside." Sponsors of the annual award are Paris Junior College, Paris Regional Medical Center, Chapman Florist, and Sanofi-Aventis.