Chris Tirello Named CHN's January 2026 Service Excellence Superstar

Congratulations to Chris Tirello, Occupational Therapist who has been selected as CHN's Service Excellence Superstar of the Month!

Chris demonstrated exceptional behavior when CHN faced a critical, time-sensitive challenge that had the potential to disrupt patient education and upcoming surgical schedules. As CHN worked under a very tight deadline to finalize and publish a 92-page Total Hip & Knee Replacement Guide & Workbook, an unexpected need arose. The guide required six full pages of exercise photographs-48 images in total-showing specific movements patients must perform to recover safely and achieve the best possible outcomes following surgery. Without these images, the guide could not be completed in time for the mandatory Joint Education Class, which would have delayed patient education and put upcoming surgeries at risk of postponement.

In a bind, CHN's Marketing Director reached out to the Rehab Services Manager to ask whether the Therapies department could assist-and do so immediately.

Chris stepped up without hesitation. Despite a busy patient schedule, he volunteered enthusiastically and made himself available that same day. He coordinated quickly to ensure the photoshoot could happen, even asking his wife to bring appropriate clothing to the hospital-shorts, tennis shoes, and a t-shirt-so the exercises could be demonstrated accurately and professionally. Chris fit the session in between patient appointments and posed for all 48 required photographs within just a few short hours.

Chris also brought an unexpected and invaluable skill set to the effort. With expertise in photography, he was instrumental in helping to match angles, adjust positioning, and optimize lighting--using cell phones only to ensure the images were clear, consistent, and clinically appropriate. His curiosity and attention to detail elevated the quality of the final product well beyond what was initially expected. Because of Chris’ willingness to jump in at a moment's notice, the guide was completed on time. Patients were able to attend the mandatory Joint Education Class as scheduled, and surgeries will proceed as planned. Most importantly, patients now have a high-quality, easy-to-follow resource that will support their recovery and help them achieve the best possible outcomes following joint replacement surgery.

Chris' actions reflect the very best of CHN’s values. His service ensured patient education stayed on track, his teamwork bridged departments seamlessly, his curiosity improved the quality of the materials, and his integrity showed in his commitment to doing the job right-even when it required extra effort beyond his role. For his professionalism, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Chris Tirello is highly deserving of recognition as CHN's Service Excellence Superstar of the Month.

On a side note, if managers were eligible for this award, Teigan Beck would also be nominated as she was right there with Chris the entire time!

Photo: (L) Chris Tirello, Service Excellence Superstar (R) Ginny Williams, CEO