Congratulations to Paul Biedny, respiratory therapist, who was selected as the recipient of the Pulmonary Health and Illnesses of the Lungs (PHIL) Award at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital for 2025. This national award recognizes the compassion, respect and dedication that respiratory therapists show to their patients.
The PHIL Award was established by The FACES Foundation to recognize outstanding respiratory therapists who provide care and treatment for patients with respiratory illnesses. Sharman Lamka established The PHIL Award as part of The FACES Foundation after her husband, Philip C. Lamka, passed away from an Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). Sharman wanted to establish a way of acknowledging the valuable role that respiratory therapists play in the lives of patients with life-threatening pulmonary illnesses.
The PHIL Award honors the ‘unsung heroes’ in the respiratory therapy profession who understand that each breath matters. Kaleida Health takes pride in implementing the PHIL Award program to honor respiratory therapists.
Paul was nominated by his coworkers at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital and was presented with the award by the leadership team. Feedback from his nomination included:
“Paul is an excellent and experienced respiratory therapist. He is knowledgeable, supportive and truly an asset to Kaleida Health. Whenever Paul is working, we all know it's going to be a great day. Recently, Paul went above and beyond for a young, critically ill patient. He took the time to thoroughly educate the patient's family, providing them with comfort and understanding during a very difficult time. He then worked collaboratively with the nursing team to ensure the patient received high-quality, coordinated care. Thanks to these efforts, the patient was supported with compassion. Paul's dedication, expertise and teamwork are a shining example of what excellence in healthcare looks like."
Thank you, Paul, for the service and care you provide to all.