Spotlight On Bette Jo Green

Congratulations to the following Starfish Award Recipients

Bette Jo Green, RN began her nursing career at The Boston Hospital for Women/Lying-in Division in 1973. Having previously completed her undergraduate coursework in social work, Green later turned to nursing, drawn by the idea of helping people both emotionally and physically.

“I just really enjoy people,” said Green. “I like getting to know them and learning what they are all about. Nursing provided the hands on experience I was looking for.”

In 1977, Green joined the labor and delivery team at the Lying-in, helping new mothers through the journey of childbirth.

“Labor and delivery is an incredible process to be involved in,” said Green, explaining what a special time it is for families. “Every single childbirth experience is unique. Although it can be overwhelming, difficult, joyful and sometimes sad, if I can help make the adventure more comfortable and put the family at ease, it is incredibly rewarding.”

Green was recently presented a Starfish Award in recognition of the outstanding emotional support she provides to patients and their families as well as to other colleagues.

“This special award reflects what patient care is all about,” said BWH President Gary Gottlieb, MD, MBA,during the Starfish Recognition Event on November 8 in the Bornstein Amphitheater. “The intensity of care we are able to provide, our ability to understand and put our arms around a family member and realize the stress that is present in patient care is so vitally important.”

“The compassionate care Bette Jo provides really captures the spirit of the Starfish Awards,” said Maggie Hickey, RN, nurse manager, CWN 5. “She is a gentle, kind person, who is so giving to her patients. Bette Jo wants people to have the best possible experience during childbirth, and she makes sure it happens.”

The award came as a complete surprise to Green, who had not anticipated attending the Starfish Recognition Event until the last minute.

“I felt a little overwhelmed, as there are so many caring people who do wonderful work here at BWH,” said Green. “It was really wonderful to see people like Don Covey of Valet Parking Services and the Department of Patient and Family Relations receive awards too. Every person at BWH is important. We function best when we all work together. I just feel so honored to be a part of it.”