Here’s an inspiring team member story that was recently shared as a “Mission Moment” in our weekly COVID-19 briefings.
BRISTOL, Tenn. – Patricia O’Quinn, a nurse practitioner in the gastroenterology department at Bristol Regional Medical Center, is known forgoing above and beyond to care for our patients. She buys blankets and keeps them in her car for patients who may need extra comfort during tough times.
Pat started giving out blankets about eight years ago to elderly nursing home patients who were alone and seemed sad. Pat said they would complain of feeling cold despite being covered in several hospital blankets.
Pat feels there’s comfort in a nice warm blanket and the gesture that you are not alone and someone cares for you.
“It’s like wrapping your arms around someone and making them feel loved,” she said.
Pat doesn’t know how many blankets she’s given out over the years, but said the words of comfort she’s received from patients are priceless.
Just a few months ago, a patient at Bristol Regional received a devastating diagnosis. Due to the pandemic and COVID-19 visitor restrictions that are in place to keep patients and team members safe, this patient’s family was unable to visit, and she told Pat she felt alone. When the patient told Pat she also felt cold and shaky, Pat went to her car, got one of her blankets and gave it to the patient, which provided that patient with so much comfort.
In addition to donating blankets to patients, Pat also brings in food to feed the team members who are working in the COVID unit.
Thank you, Pat, for all you do!
