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Judy Hicks of St. Jude Named APOSW Social Worker of the Year

Social worker Judy Hicks of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has been named the 2010 Social Worker of the Year by the Association of Pediatric Oncology Social Workers (APOSW).

The award recognizes Hick’s contributions to children and families affected by life-threatening illnesses. She accepted the award, sponsored by the Children's Brain Tumor Foundation, at the annual APOSW conference held in Anaheim, Calif.

Pediatric oncology social work is a specialty discipline committed to enhancing the emotional and physical well-being of children with cancer and their families. Social workers at St. Jude are specially trained in counseling to help patients and family members adjust to the changes that result from the diagnosis of a catastrophic illness. Examples of this might include helping parents talk to their child and siblings about the diagnosis; counseling parents and patients about managing everyday life with the demands of treatment; and helping families learn new ways to manage stress.

“We are all very proud of Judy for receiving this award and for the many professional contributions she has made to social work and the field of pediatric oncology,” said Fran Greeson, director of social work at St. Jude. “She is an exceptional clinician whose dedication to her patients and families shines through daily in her clinical practice.”

— Source: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital