Staff rally behind co-workers in crisis

When you work side-by-side with people, day-in and day-out, you tend to show your love in word and deed.

At least, that’s what Frances Roe, a nurse manager, noticed about caregivers at PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center in Longview, Washington.

Over the past several months, she said members of the medical unit had more than a few opportunities to help each other when trouble hit.

In one instance, Lorraine Despaine and Lori Miller led efforts to raise more than $2,000 to help a co-worker whose house had burned down. Staff also collected home goods and clothing to help the family get back on their feet.

In another situation, Janae Wall organized a fundraiser to help a caregiver whose daughter-in-law died. With everyone pitching in, there was enough to buy an airline ticket and cover travel costs so the caregiver could be with her family during the difficult time.

Frances noted a final situation when one of the nurses had been diagnosed with cancer. The unit was joined by staff from other areas of the hospital to pull together a silent auction for their ailing co-worker’s benefit.

“This is a special unit,” said Frances. “I believe these acts speak volumes to the mission that these caregivers have in supporting each other.”