Not All Angels Have Wings
Not all angels have wings. Some people believe they walk among us to help with life’s journey. The notion of guardian angels watching over us, especially during times of illness, stress, and concern, can be comforting. Firelands Regional Medical Center is full of “angels,” which is why the Guardian Angel Program was introduced. This program gives grateful patients and their families a unique opportunity to recognize the physician, nurse, housekeeper, dietary hostess, or other Firelands team member that made a difference during their hospital stay.
Upon admission, each patient is given a brochure explaining how they can recognize team members who provide an exceptional experience during their stay. Space is provided to write the caregiver’s name, as well as any additional comments they wish to share. When a Firelands team member is recognized, they are called a Guardian Angel. Each time they are recognized, they receive a card informing them or her of the patient’s appreciation and a lapel pin to wear proudly.
Below is a sample of the numerous accolades Firelands associates have received over the years from grateful patients:
“Ashley was an all-star helping bring our baby girl into this world. She was everything you would hope for in the process: confident, calming, thorough, compassionate, strong, and encouraging. Ashley was a Guardian Angel to two rookie parents and a brand new human.”
“The respiratory staff on 3T are all angels to me. Thank you for going above and beyond the call of duty. You all took such good care of me.”
“I was in the hospital for 11 days. While all nurses, orderlies, support staff, and others were professional and friendly, Cassie was a lifesaver after my surgery! She truly cared about me and "heard" me! I couldn’t have made it through one horrible night without her. She was my guardian angel! Please let her know how truly grateful I am. Firelands is BLESSED to have such loving, caring, and compassionate employees.”
“Kyle had me up in a month when it was supposed to take me four months. I am farther ahead than I should be. He is a good PT. He is my guardian angel. He has changed my life and has given me hope for healing. Kyle never gave up on me.”
“I was in so much pain, and Will was my Guardian Angel. He is the kindest person ever! He was incredibly gentle and reassuring with me and made sure that my pain was minimized as I was being diagnosed.”
As the examples above attest, the Guardian Angel Program gives patients and their loved ones a chance to thank our selfless employees. Spreading gratitude serves as a wonderful way for all involved to experience a sense of happiness-fostering a warm and friendly environment.
Although a donation is not required for the Guardian Angel to be recognized with a lapel pin, patients may choose to make a tax-deductible donation to the area of their choice within the medical center in honor of their Guardian Angel.
All donations made through the Guardian Angel Program will stay at Firelands to support patient services and programs. To make a secure online gift, please visit foundationforfirelands.com. If you have questions about the Guardian Angel Program, please call 419-557-7150.
If you happen to be driving around the main campus of the hospital, be sure to take a look at the new pole banners that were recently installed, honoring our top-earning Guardian Angel award recipients.
Since launching the Guardian Angel Program in 2018, more than 2,800 team members at Firelands have been recognized, proving that when you need an “angel,” you are sure to find one at Firelands.
