Reid Health team members craft cards for patients

Reid Health team members are making sure patients in the hospital on Christmas Day receive some holiday cheer.

Rick Johnson (left), Reid Rehab, and Holly Lemar, Nursing, join coworkers to make cards for patients.

As a project of the Patient Experience Committee, approximately 50 Reid Health staff gathered in Lingle Hall recently to make Christmas cards for patients. In its third year, the project produces 200 handmade Christmas cards in about an hour’s time. A Reid Auxiliary volunteer writes a holiday message in each card. The cards are then taken to each nursing unit, signed by staff and given to patients on Christmas Day.

Patients appreciate receiving the cards. “Sometimes a patient will say this is the only Christmas card they have received in several years,” said Michelle McClurg, Director of Patient Experience. Patients like the fact that someone took the time to make a card and create something special for them. It is a small token that helps patients know they are not forgotten. “The cards help ease the situation of being in the hospital on Christmas Day for our patients,” said McClurg.

Supplies for the project are provided by the Reid Auxiliary. Becky Jewison, Director of Volunteer Services, takes advantage of local scrapbooking and craft supply sales. “These cards are amazing in their creativity,” said Jewison. “Each one is different.”