Allie Perez, ARM at the North Main CR, is the staff member of the month.  Allie has been with STEL for 2 years.  Rachael Weaver stated that during this time, I have had the pleasure of witnessing progress and positive change as a result of Allie’s persistence, support, and relationship with our residents. Allie always advocates for our residents and always knows what is going on in their lives. She takes the time to get to know each and every person individually. She knows their likes and dislikes, their family history, childhood stories, their triggers, their coping skills, their friends and families, etc. Allie is very welcoming, caring, and easy to talk to. She will always tell you the truth, even when it’s difficult to hear. She listens non-judgmentally and always offers support.  We had a situation this past fall at the CR where Allie’s quick thinking and immediate action literally saved one of our resident’s lives. Our resident had been stung by a bee and was severely allergic. She came into the office unable to speak as her tongue had swelled so much and having difficulty breathing. Allie immediately realized what had happened and was able to assist her in administering her Epi-Pen while directing staff to call 911. Allie sat with the resident and kept her calm until the Paramedics arrived. Shortly before they arrived her tongue started swelling again and the resident was panicking. Allie spoke calmly to her and helped relieve her anxiety. It is so easy to panic in a situation like that, but Allie knew exactly what to do and she did it flawlessly.   Allie is not only dedicated to her clients, but also to her co-workers. She is the perfect example of a dedicated and hard-working employee. She always puts the resident’s needs above her own and sacrifices much of her own personal time to accommodate the staffing needs at the program. Allie is very flexible, despite working a second job, and always picks up shifts that need to be filled. When staff are having a bad day or going through tough times, she goes above and beyond to try to make it a little easier and more bearable for them. She isn’t afraid to make extra phone calls, problem-solve, or help out her co-workers without being asked and she always does it with a smile on her face.  I could go on and on about all of Allie’s amazing attributes and good deeds. If I had to choose one word to best describe Allie it would be selfless.  I have never met someone more genuine, caring, or giving than Allie. She is an amazing caregiver, counselor, co-worker, employee, and friend. Allie is very deserving of the staff member of the month for her contribution of her time, talents, and her never-ending support and dedication to everyone at STEL.  Congratulations!