A Great Nurse

AYDEN — Ayden native Sue Edwards has a lot to be proud of.

Edwards was recently among North Carolina’s Great 100 Nurses for 2004. She is also celebrating grandparenthood again. Edward’s daughter, Jessica Griffin, gave birth at the end of October.

Edwards, who resides between Ayden and Grifton, said both were exciting events and she couldn’t be any prouder of the nurses that she works with day after day.

"I was flattered," Edwards said of the recognition. "I consider my role supporting nurses that have direct contact with patients."

Edwards has been the director of Cardiovascular Inpatient Services at Pitt County Memorial Hospital since 2002 though she’s been at PCMH since 1976.

Edwards was recognized at a special ceremony in Greensboro on Saturday, September 25.

"I enjoyed it," Edwards said.

Edwards said she was nominated by her co-workers and was surprised when she discovered in July that she was among the Great 100, especially since she felt there were so many others who deserved the recognition.

The Great 100 identifies the top 100 Registered Nurses in the State of North Carolina. The idea is to promote nursing and to raise funds for nursing scholarships.

Edwards job duties includes making sure patients get the best of care, something she takes seriously.

"It’s my friends, family and community I’m taking care of," Edwards said. "It takes a lot of planning and execution. I think the biggest part of my job is communicating."

Edwards grew up in Grifton and was among those graduating in the last class at the old Ayden High School. Edwards’ parents, Raymond and Bea Gaskins, still live in Ayden and Edwards’ husband, Ken, grew up in Grifton, so Edwards has a lot of local history to be proud of.

Her family also boasts ties to the health field, where most of Edwards family serves in. And though Edwards’ parents were not in the health professional, Edwards said they instilled the idea of helping others in their kids.

Edwards added that she couldn’t do what she does every day without the help and support of her husband.

"He’s been an incredible partner," Edwards said. "He’s very supportive. I think we have good balance."

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