National Hospital Week (May 11—17, 2014) has been celebrated since 1921 and it is the nation’s largest healthcare event. The theme for 2014 is, “Compassion, Innovation, Dedication: The Commitment Continues.”
I learned a great deal through the process of being diagnosed with a serious illness, having surgery, and going through months of chemotherapy treatments. I teamed up with one of the hospital chaplains to begin a support group for individuals and families coping with a life threatening illness. One thing led to another and eventually I found myself employed as a part-time chaplain. I could not believe that I was actually agreeing to do this. During my lengthy stay in the hospital as a patient, I just wanted out. Now I was voluntarily going back in as an employee.
Seeing first-hand what goes into the care of a patient from multiple avenues was enlightening. The skillsets that are present in a hospital are simply amazing. It isn’t just the doctors, nurses, anesthesiologists, and other high profile personnel that make the hospital run. It is a long list of other highly dedicated and competent individuals who make hospitals what they are. I want to give a personal “shout out” to the phlebotomists who have drawn my blood literally hundreds of times. I do not like needle sticks so when you do it well I am extremely grateful for your expertise.
Hospitals in smaller communities sometimes struggle with a lack of resources available to some of the larger metropolitan hospitals. I can understand the frustration that this brings, but I am also grateful for what local hospitals are able to bring to the table. County and regional hospitals don’t simply provide treatment and comfort to the sick; these hospitals are part of the local community and represent hope. It is with a deep sense of gratitude that I extend my sincerest best wishes to all those in the medical community serving in hospitals all across our nation. Have a wonderful week!
National Hospital Week–“Compassion, Innovation, Dedication: The Commitment Continues!”