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The Helping Hands Program, sponsored by the CHRISTUS St. Michael Foundation, allows patients, family members, co-workers and others to recognize caregivers and support staff at CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System who have gone above and beyond to meet the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of patients. Community members who wish to recognize a CHRISTUS St. Michael Associate can make a donation of any amount to the CHRISTUS St. Michael Foundation and submit a brief explanation that details how the Associate provided extraordinary care. Following nomination, the Associate receives an award, a Helping Hand lapel pin and recognition in an employee newsletter and on social media. Donations are used to support hospital needs such as acquiring new technology or equipment. "When people are in the hospital, they face what can be a very stressful time in their lives," says Cristy Lummus, foundation development coordinator with the CHRISTUS St. Michael Foundation. "Our Associates guide them through these experiences and care for them. The Helping Hands program allows community members to express their gratitude." You, too, can recognize physicians, nurses, volunteers, therapists, housekeepers or other Associates who have provided excellent care to you or a loved one. Call (903) 614-2024 or visit christusstmichaelfoundation.org to make a donation. Think back to a time when you or a loved one received quality care as an outpatient or during a hospital stay. Did you have an opportunity to say thank you? the Hands That Heal For the McEntire family, the care provided by Kelsi Ayers, RN, made a joyous event even better. Andy McEntire clearly remembers meeting Kelsi in the CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System Labor and Delivery Unit while eagerly awaiting the birth of her granddaughter. Kelsi offered support and encouragement for Andy's daughter-in-law and took time to answer the family's questions at each stage of labor. But the care she provided didn't end there. From a hot cup of coffee to an extra blanket, Kelsi made sure that Andy, her son and her daughter- in-law's mother also had everything they needed. Andy was so appreciative she nominated Kelsi for a Helping Hands Award. "I am proud to know that so many other parents and grandparents will receive the care and compassion that we did," Andy says. "Kelsi has a God-given gift, and her heart guides her work. Kelsi represents CHRISTUS St. Michael so well, and I am so thankful for everything she did for us." Calming a New Family's Fears Recognizing Andy McEntire and Kelsi Ayers, RN LiveWell | Spring 2016 3