Riverview RN Diane Prince (left) accepts an honorary plaque, gift and sign from Modern Woodmen’s Kristi Kent commemorating Prince’s contributions to the community.
By Katie Bohannon, News Editor
Modern Woodmen of America recognized one local healthcare worker for her contributions to her community on Monday, April 12.
Modern Woodmen of America activity coordinator Kristi Kent honored Riverview Regional Medical Center registered nurse Diane Prince for a lifelong commitment to bettering others, recognizing an individual whose service shines as a bright light.
Kent presented Prince with a plaque, sign and gift bag in front of Riverview’s fountain early this week, taking the time to reflect on a person whose unwavering efforts aid so many. The recognition emerges as a representation of Modern Woodmen’s mission, which strives to recognize heroes in the local community.
Inspired by her mother and two aunts who were all graduates of Holy Name of Jesus Hospital (Riverview’s original name when founded in 1926), Prince became a registered nurse in 1978 before acquiring a position at Riverview. As a case manager, Prince dealt with discharge planning and assisting patients with transitioning to further levels of care. Though she retired at the age of 62, she returned to work three years later, only to find herself swimming in uncharted waters.
Prince noted when the pandemic struck last year, she felt tempted to join the world of anxiousness and uncertainty. In her sixties, Prince watched as several men and women her age chose to hunker down and quarantine to protect themselves. Yet, her own desire to help others rose above and that same dedicated spirit that served her community for over 40 years proved unfaltering. Prince did what she does best – she went to work and performed her duty.
Prince felt proud to help during the pandemic and was thankful when the vaccine became available to the public. Kent shared despite the endless hours Prince sewed into the hospital, she would always find her walking her dog after work. As her friend for a number of years and neighbor, Kent watched as Prince diligently committed herself to providing for others day in and day out.
“It makes me feel wonderful to know we have people like Diane in the community who are willing to serve and work long hours,” said Kent. “Diane is precious – she’s kind, caring and just a special person. It makes my heart happy to honor her for doing all the work she does.”
Prince expressed her gratitude for Kent and her appreciative nature regarding her recognition. As part of Modern Woodmen’s extension of generosity, the charity of Prince’s choice received a $100 donation in Prince’s name. Prince chose the Etowah Pregnancy Testing Center, a crisis pregnancy center committed to serving local young women. The Etowah Pregnancy Testing Center aids young women with a collection of services, including free, confidential lab-quality pregnancy tests, counseling for both women and men, maternity and baby clothing, food, formula, supplies and referrals. Except when required by law, all services are free and confidential.
“[My position as RN] is very rewarding,” said Prince. “I like talking to patients and their families. I just love the hospital setting; I always have. I don’t think any of us realized when we went into nursing or any other medical profession what would happen in 2020. I’m so proud of all the nurses, doctors and orderlies – I’m proud of everybody who came in and did their job and did what they have to do.”
