Making Things Merry and Bright

Christmas is for Caring

At Methodist Health System, “The Meaning of Care” is more than a tag line or motto. Every employee, from doctors and nurses to account specialists and food technicians, embodies a special kind of spirit that truly exemplifies these simple words. It’s in the friendly smiles, warm touches and cheerful embraces of each new day.

Our special series “Christmas is for Caring” hopes to inspire and illustrate how this spirit comes to life in what can seem like the most unlikely of ways.

All about the patient experience

At Methodist Jennie Edmundson Hospital, registration specialist Vicki Williams sees and speaks with a lot of people who walk through the front door. 

“I love working here and I love the people,” said Vicki, who has been at Methodist Jennie Edmundson for nearly two decades.

Because of her dedication to the people and the place, Vicki wanted to do her part to make the patient experience more beautiful.

Improving the aesthetic

“Every day I’d walk through the front door and see those empty planters,” said Vicki about the large planters near the hospital’s entrance. “I decided to do something about it.”

So one day, on her own time and with the blessing of hospital administration, Vicki undertook a project to improve the aesthetic of Methodist Jennie Ed.

“First I got some big mums and put them in the planters,” said Vicki. “Then for Halloween I got some pumpkins.”

The spirit of the season

Now, as the holiday season descends, the planters are filled with a little Christmas cheer.

“I got some little trees and decorated them up for the holidays,” said Vicki. “I get lots of compliments on how pretty it looks from patients and employees and I really just love it. It’s about making our beautiful entrance a little more festive for all.”

Vicki says it’s all about sharing this season of caring and helping Methodist share the holiday spirit. And as for what’s next? Vicki says she’s already planning her design for January.

“That’s just how my brain works, I guess.”