Southwest Washington Medical Center's Hope and Spirit award recognizes and acknowledges Southwest patients past and present who through their deeds, actions and goodwill inspire others to overcome major physical or mental challenges in their lives. Nominees should demonstrate a combination of the following attributes and achievements. Respect and belief in him/herself and others Resolve to overcome a serious medical challenge Profound emotional/spiritual experience Passion Courage Inspiring to others

ELIGIBILITY
Awards are given to current and previous patients of Southwest Washington Medical Center and its affiliate programs or services.

• If an honoree is deceased, an effort will be made to contact the closest of kin.
• Employees and the public are encouraged to participate in the nominations.
• Your nomination will be treated confidentiality and we will solicit the nominee's written permission before any information you provide is shared or publicized.

Tips for Creating a Successful Nomination

1. Start early to allow enough time to gather supporting information
2. Solicit letters of support from people who know the individual well and can attest to the significance of their personal story of Hope and Spirit. Strong nominations ideally will come from several different sources.
3. to the extent possible, use detailed and specific examples when describing the nominee's personal situation and inspiring story.
4. You can download a nomination form to mail in. Photocopies are acceptable. Please use one form for each person you nominate. You may also nominate online at the bottom of this page - one submission for each nomination.

Award Presentation
The Hope and Spirit Award Committee will review award nominations and determine which nominees will be recognized. The top award winners will be contacted and invited to receive their award during a special presentation at Southwest's 150th Anniversary Birthday Party at Pearson Air Park at the Vancouver Historic Reserve on Saturday, June 7, 2008.

Have a Question?
Feel free to contact the Hope and Spirit Awards Committee co-chairs: Michelle Halfhill, Marketing by phone at 360.514.7262 or e-mail at mhalfhil@swmedicalcenter.org or Jackie Godfrey, Education Department, by phone at 360.514.6788 or e-mail at jgodfrey@swmedicalcenter.org.

Nominations for the Hope and Spirit Award are due by Friday, May 23, 2008. Please use one entry form per each nomination.