Delta Dental Plan of Minnesota recently received the "Employer of the Year" award during the American Cancer society (ACS) Relay For Life of the Duluth area. The award is presented by ACS for exemplary performance an cooperation in working with employees who have received a cancer diagnosis.
Duluth Delta Dental employee and ACS volunteer Blanche Johnson, who was out of the office for nearly 10 months while undergoing two cancer surgeries and chemotherapy, nominated the company. Coworkers completed her work, sent cards and gifts and also provided transportation to treatments and medical appointments. The company also allowed her to return on a part-time basis while continuing recovery before rejoining the company as a full-time employee.
Also during that time, Johnson's coworker, Celeste Richardson, was diagnosed with advanced stomach cancer. "She was a single person," Johnson said. "And her mother came up from Tennessee to be with her. Because she didn't drive, someone from our department was with her and Celeste every day, including weekends. They took her on errands, as well as back and forth from the hospital. They sat and held her hand. When Celeste died, the department helped her mother with the arrangements. I am asking for this award not only in my name, but also posthumously for Celeste Richardson."
With its selection as the area employer of the year, Delta Dental Plan of Minnesota is now eligible to receive a regional award from the American Cancer Society North Region, which includes all of Minnesota roughly west and north of the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Delta Dental Plan of Minnesota is a sponsor of two Relay For Life events in Minnesota -- one in St. Louis County and another in Eagan.
"We are honored to receive this award," said company President and CEO Michael F. Walsh.
