Christine Stein is the living definition of a team player. 

A patient accounts specialist (billing) for Ohio’s Hospice, she has an unwavering dedication to making sure her teammates get a hand when needed. 

“I was raised that way to always be there to help others,” Christine said. “If I know the answer, provide the answer. If I can help you, I’m going to help you.” 

She does it with no expectations of recognition, but her teammates felt like Christine deserved some kudos. Five of them nominated her for a STARS Award given by LeadingAge, a conglomerate of more than 5,300 nonprofit aging services providers and other mission-driven organizations serving older adults. 

Earlier this month, Christine was honored with that STARS award during a luncheon, where other award winners were also recognized. 

“I was speechless,” she said. “I was very honored. I very much appreciated it. And then one of my co-workers actually sent me the letter she sent in and she had me crying.” 

Among the things Christine’s teammates said in nominating her: 

“You are a great asset to our team. You are a star to our team and make a difference in a positive way.” 

“I have never spoken to Christine without her smiling and bringing a positive presence. She carries a friendly spirit and goes out of her way for coworkers, patients, facilities, and leadership. When I broke my leg, she continued to check on me and offer help.” 

“She consistently demonstrates a helpful attitude, sharing valuable information whenever she encounters it. Her prompt responses and willingness to assist highlight her expertise.” 

Neither Janet Walk, Christine’s manager, nor Heather Current, director of revenue cycle in Finance and Billing, were part of the nominating process, but they agreed with all the praise. 

“Christine is an outstanding teammate,” Janet said. “Christine is very knowledgeable in all aspects of billing. She is a great asset to this team and loved by all.” 

Added Heather, “She’s always really helpful. She’s very great at teaching people how to do things. She’s just one of those easy-going people. She’ll go above and beyond to help make sure her teammates have what they need. It was nice to see that the team did it. That really tells a lot about Christine.” 

This is her second stint with Ohio’s Hospice. Fittingly, she came back a little more than two years ago because of the friendly, helpful atmosphere at Ohio’s Hospice. 

“Here I feel like family,” Christine said. “I feel like I’m needed and wanted here. And I love my job. I know it’s hard for some people to say, but I absolutely love coming in and doing my job. Coming back has been amazing.” 

The praise bestowed upon her by her teammates also has Christine feeling good. 

“I’m just really grateful to be back here and have the team that I have,” she said. “It’s like, they’re amazing themselves and they’ve nominated me. It was really nice. They see me as a person and not just somebody who they have to work with every day. They see me as an individual person who’s willing to help them.” 

Congratulations to Christine. We are grateful for her dedication to the mission of Ohio’s Hospice.