Making a Difference: September 2018 highlights

Employees across Michigan Medicine continue to make a difference and inspire colleagues through their hard work and dedication. Recognizing the contributions employees make to the organization helps the team to become more motivated, drives better teamwork and gives each individual a sense that they are an integral part of achieving organizational goals.

Here are just a few examples of how faculty and staff helped Michigan Medicine provide exceptional care and service last month:

Peer recognition

Becky Lee, medical assistant intermediate, transplant clinic

Becky, you recently reached out to me and said, “If no one else told you today, I appreciate you.” You are so incredibly aware that a simple kind word like that can change someone’s whole day. Your attitude is always uplifting and positive and I appreciate YOU for bringing kindness to the forefront of your job. Thank you!

Matthew Wilson, call center representative, Domino’s Allergy Clinic

I recently overheard Matt on the phone with a patient who had called for directions on their way to an appointment. Matt was so kind and calm and thorough. He gave the patient landmarks to look for, advised them of streets they would be passing and even went as far as verifying that they were driving east or west. It was so nice to hear someone being extra helpful and going beyond his daily “duties” to be sure the patient made it to their office visit safely. Great job, Matt!

Margy Howes, administrative specialist, Depression Center

Margy, you are always going above and beyond to do high-quality work and help your colleagues. As one of the longest-serving employees in our program, the rest of us would be lost without you. Your acute attention to detail is extremely valuable because you often catch things that others miss and anticipate potential challenges. You are extremely dedicated to your work, but also support our program and staff in a special way by being very kind and helpful to us all. Your continual willingness to assist your colleagues is invaluable to our work and programs. Thanks for everything you do.

Dennis (Chuck) Hayes, patient services assistant, neurosurgery

Chuck is a constant ray of sunshine in the clinic and constantly helping out in any way he can. He quickly gets patients to his desk to check them in and always does so with a smile. If there is downtime, Chuck is making folders or scanning documents into patient’s charts or cleaning the clinic. He adds a warm, peaceful presence to a sometimes hectic environment and never complains. Chuck’s heart is so big and there is a place for everyone in it. Thank you for being so wonderful!

Family to staff

Courtney Hoffenbacher, certified child life specialist

My son is a very happy, healthy child who happens to have severe anxiety with needle pokes. Courtney spent a very relaxed, unrushed hour with him going through the blood draw process. He went from crying in the corner unable to hold his hand out for a finger stick, to a calm child able to have a blood draw with no tears. We could not have accomplished this without Courtney’s help. Thank you.

Kimberly Wagner, registered nurse, 8W Brandon NICU

Kimberly, you were my not just my son’s primary nurse, you were his champion and advocate. As new parents, we were scared, nervous, lost and far from home. You took us in with open arms and an open heart. We knew he was in good hands and we felt at peace knowing he was in your charge during the times we weren’t there. You have a passion for these babies and it shows in your thoughts, words, actions and humility. We received amazing care from everyone, but you took the cake and made a lasting impression on our family. We can’t thank you enough for all you did for us!

Patient to staff

Jason Holmes, call center intermediate, urology

Jason took all the time necessary to look for the right doctor for my specific situation. I appreciate the efforts he took to get me set up and in the office without delay. But on top of that, all of the directions he provided to get me where I needed to go were very helpful. Thank you, Jason, for your attention to detail and your patience with those you serve.

Diana Curran, M.D., associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology

Thank you, Dr. Curran, for exhibiting extensive warmth and compassion for your patients. I had recently received a difficult diagnosis and cannot tell you how grateful I am for your kindness as I processed the information. I just want to let you know how much I appreciate you — you are an amazing human being.