Making a Difference Every Day

March #SOLC17 Day 27

Last week, I went with a friend to an appointment at the University of Chicago.  As we walked through the hallway we saw an interesting sign on the wall.  This sign was surrounded by pictures of staff who make a difference for patients every day. dd

 

 

There was one picture in particular that stood out to me.  It was of a woman who worked in the cafeteria cleaning.  She referred to herself as “just a cleaner,” but her supervisor shared so much more.  She explained that Roberta goes out of her way to ask puzzled visitor’s if she can help them or answer questions.   People often ask about the menu, or she helps them with directions to other locations in the hospital.

When referring to hospitals, we often think of the contributions of doctors and nurses, but overlook so many others that make the somewhat anxious experience a little more comforting.  It was nice to see that members of the staff are recognized and appreciated at the hospital.

Between appointments, my friend and I went up to the Sky Lounge cafeteria for a bite to eat.  We ordered our lunch and looked around for Roberta.  We couldn’t find her.

So, we picked up our order and perused the area for a table.  We walked over to a nice one by the window.  Ironically, the table was really dirty.  There were no cleaning people in sight.  Hmm.  I walked to the counter, grabbed some napkins and water, and proceeded to clean our table.

Roberta must have had the day off.  She deserves it, but boy the whole place goes down hill when she’s not there!