A Special Holiday Message from Mr. Merrill
A Magical Holiday Tale
On the first day of Christmas, in January's light,
A team of heroes, skilled and bright.
Twenty-five medical professionals, surgeons six,
Made history at Cook Children's, a heartening fix.
Conjoined twins, JamieLynn and AmieLynn named,
Into this world, their destiny framed.
Arrived at NICU, a delicate start,
A team's dedication, a work of art.
Months before birth, their journey began,
Imagination, skill, a well-thought plan.
Unique needs met with care so rare,
Innovative solutions, love in the air.
Lock-step they moved, a synchronized dance,
Supporting growth, giving every chance.
Eleven hours in an operating room,
Separation surgery, dispelling the gloom.
Imagination, skill, and collaboration,
Transformed the sisters' shared foundation.
Now separate, enjoying life's embrace,
Thanks to this team, bound by grace.
The Finley sisters, a story to tell,
A Christmas tale, where moments for magic dwell.
United in spirit, though bodies apart,
A gift of new life, and two separate beating hearts.
Dear Cook Children’s Family,
We are writing to extend our warmest holiday greetings to all of you and your families.
What a year it’s been at Cook Children’s as the above poem so eloquently illustrates. Who can forget the joy we all felt when doctors announced conjoined twins AmieLynn and JamieLynn Finley were successfully separated after an 11-hour surgery. It was a magical moment for Cook Children’s, and one seen around the world.
But the magic for the year didn’t end there. We are always amazed at how Cook Children’s never seems to run out of these moments, big and small. They remind us how fortunate we are to work in such a special place surrounded by such exceptional people. We could fill page after page highlighting them all. But, in the interest of time, and in the spirit of the season, we’re celebrating the 12 days of Christmas by shining a light on Cook Children’s magic makers and culture keepers.
The moments captured here only scratch the surface of the incredible collaboration, boundless imagination, heartfelt kindness, genuine generosity, unwavering respect, and comforting safety that each one of you embodies as you make magic happen for our patients and families every single day of the year. Be sure to check it out as we celebrate the season and our work family, Cook Children’s style!
We’re not stopping there to spread holiday cheer!
There is a brand new employee benefit on the horizon, inspired by your feedback and requests during our 2023 Benefit Listening Sessions! Beginning in the summer of 2024 (exact date to be announced), Cook Children’s will offer Paid Parental Leave! Eligible employees welcoming a child through birth, adoption, or surrogacy will be entitled to up to six (6) weeks of paid parental leave. Thank you for helping us see the world through your eyes. We consider your families to be a part of our Cook Children’s family, and hope this reflects our commitment to valuing and supporting you and them.
Even as we celebrate this season, we know sometimes the joy of the season can be overshadowed by sorrow for so many who have experienced loss or whose circumstances are difficult to bear. We hope you find some peace and comfort here with your Cook Children’s family. There are many resources available for you through our Employee Assistance Program and Spiritual Care department. Please do not hesitate to reach out to these contacts for assistance, even if it’s just to talk to someone.
We hope all of you will find a moment to take in the sights and sounds of the season all over Cook Children’s campuses, from the dazzling lights display to the festive holiday decorations, both inside and out. It’s truly a magical experience that warms the heart.
Thank you for your unwavering dedication to our Promise, and for doing everything for the child every day that you are here. Without you, there would be no magic. We can hardly wait to see and experience all of the memorable moments we’ll share in 2024!
We wish you and yours the happiest of holidays, and the brightest new year.
Sincerely,
Rick W. Merrill, President & CEO, and the Entire Senior Leadership Team