The Craniofacial Foundation of America has awarded Lynda M Gooden, C.D.A, R.D.A, C.O.A the Terri Farmer Service Award for her dedication and service to children born with craniofacial abnormalities.
The Terri Farmer Service Award is presented annually to an individual dedicated to creating better tomorrows for patients with facial birth defects, tumors and trauma related to injuries. Recipients of the award display a compassion for the families who visit the Center and portray a strong commitment to the mission of CFA. The foundation, located at Erlanger Medical Center, is a non-profit organization offering a variety of services to patients, their families, and health care professionals.
The Terri Farmer Service Award was established in 2009 as a tribute to Terri Farmer, who served as the coordinator for the Tennessee Craniofacial Center for 18 years and executive director of the CFA for 15 years. Farmer was recognized for her dedication, compassion and willingness to make a difference in the lives of children with facial disfigurements.
The 2013 recipient, Lynda Gooden, works closely with Dr.
Sydney T. Cox PHD, DDS, MS in treating children with craniofacial needs. Working primarily with the cleft palate families from birth to adolescence, Ms. Gooden guides patients and their families through the dental processes related to their craniofacial condition. She is known for her amazing ability to set these families at ease in what can often be a scary time and overwhelming experience, and her passion for the children and families is immediately apparent in her work.
“Lynda goes above and beyond to ensure that these children get what they need, and that their families understand each part of the process,” said Terry Smyth, executive director of the CFA. “She has become a valuable part of the team over the years, and we feel very fortunate to have her by our side for each milestone.”
The award will be displayed at the Foundation Gallery at Cobblestone Rue during this year’s Palate 2 Palette event on Saturday. Funds for the annual event benefits the CFA and its mission.
For more information on Palate 2 Palette, including ticket prices, please visit www.p2pchattanooga.com. For more information on the Craniofacial Foundation of America, please visit www.craniofacialfoundation.org.