By Kaley Johnson

The final Respect and Kindness Lunch and Learn focused on cancer survivors, caretakers of people with cancer, and how to best support coworkers with a cancer diagnosis. Many on the call shared their personal experience and what helped or did not help them after they were diagnosed with cancer. Kathy McLean, Vice President of Brand and Experience, led the discussion and shared her own story of surviving breast cancer.

Some cancer survivors said it was difficult to ask for help or know what they needed; to help others, the group put together several lists on how best to support coworkers diagnosed with cancer or people who are caring for someone with cancer.

To help others understand what it's like to have cancer, Kathy read aloud a written piece by Caitlin Feeley called “What it’s Really Like to Receive a Cancer Diagnosis.”

Supporting someone with cancer:

-       Listen and allow them to share their feelings openly. Don’t make the conversation about you or your feelings.

-       Offer to help with everyday tasks such as house cleaning, laundry, lawn care, car maintenance, walking dogs or caring for pets and cleaning out the refrigerator. It might help to offer to do those tasks specifically instead of asking “how can I help?” The person might already feel overwhelmed; offering to do a specific task may be less overwhelming.

-       Don’t always give food: many people shared that going through chemotherapy makes eating difficult and food isn’t always the best gift.

-       Just show up: watch a movie, play cards, hang out and listen. Don’t talk about cancer if the other person doesn’t want to.

-       Treat the person as you normally would: someone with cancer may already feel like their life is abnormal. “Any sense of normalcy helps you concentrate on something other than cancer,” Kathy said. “It’s also nice to know people think of you the same way they always have.”

-       If the person is open to it, send scarves and hats. Hair loss can feel like an awkward topic, but sometimes it’s more awkward to not acknowledge it, some people on the call said.

-       Thoughtful gifts help; one woman said her leadership team would come up with a cute gift for every chemo treatment she had, which meant a lot.

How leaders and managers can help:

-       Make sure the person knows their health is the priority. One woman shared that her boss told her if she ever had to choose between a doctor’s appointment and a meeting, her medical needs should always come first.

-       If you have permission, share updates with the team so the person doesn’t have to tell each person individually.

-       Give the person permission to feel; let them know they are safe to have whatever feelings they have about their diagnosis.

-       Sit down with the person and prioritize their workload with them. Help them feel comfortable letting you or others assist with their workload.

-       Create a relaxation room or space if possible.

How to support caretakers:

-       Make sure the person knows their loved one’s health comes first. Be understanding of time off needed for medical appointments and caretaker tasks.

-       Help with tasks around house if needed.

-       Give them a gift card for a massage or other self-care to help them take time for themselves.

What NOT to say or do to someone with cancer:

-       “It’s only hair.”

-       “I know how you feel” (unless you really do know).

-       Any statement beginning with “at least” such as “at least they caught it early”.

-       “Just cut “em off, you don’t need ‘em” in response to a breast cancer diagnosis.

-       “Everything happens for a reason”.

-       “I don’t know how you’re going through this without being married”.

-       “You’re gonna be fine” or “It's going to be okay”.

-       Second guess the treatment plan or offer other treatments.

-       Suggesting “natural” or “alternative” treatments.

-       Talking about someone else who died of the same cancer.

-       Talking about how bad chemo, surgery or radiation was for your friend or other loved one.

Other resources for people with cancer or who have a loved one with cancer:

-       Joan Katz Cancer Resource Center at Baylor Scott and White: a free resource that helps cancer patients prepare for treatment and determine questions to ask doctors , and offers a nurse navigator to help navigate care.

-       Bright Horizons: An employee benefit that provides respite care for cancer patients under the direct care of Cook Children’s employees. Program offers up to 10 uses of services per year for a child or adult/relative.

-       ACS Caregivers & Family resources

-       Care ATC offers, another Cook Children's benefit. It offers confidential mental health counseling at its center on Henderson Street in Fort Worth.

-       Cancer Care Services provides therapy for free for entire family. They also have many other resources for patients and families.

During the Lunch & Learn, Kathy read a piece by Caitlin Feeley that gives an amazing analogy about her cancer journey that has resonated with others who've been through it too.

Chased by A Mountain Lion

What’s it like to go through cancer treatment? 

It’s something like this: one day, you’re minding your own business, you open the fridge to get some breakfast, and OH MY GOD THERE’S A MOUNTAIN LION IN YOUR FRIDGE. 

Wait, what? How? Why is there a mountain lion in your fridge? NO TIME TO EXPLAIN. RUN! THE MOUNTAIN LION WILL KILL YOU! UNLESS YOU FIND SOMETHING EVEN MORE FEROCIOUS TO KILL IT FIRST! 

So you take off running, and the mountain lion is right behind you. You know the only thing that can kill a mountain lion is a bear, and the only bear is on top of the mountain, so you better find that bear. You start running up the mountain in hopes of finding the bear. Your friends desperately want to help, but they are powerless against mountain lions, as mountain lions are godless killing machines. But they really want to help, so they’re cheering you on and bringing you paper cups of water and orange slices as you run up the mountain and yelling at the mountain lion, “GET LOST, MOUNTAIN LION, NO ONE LIKES YOU.” And you really appreciate the support, but the mountain lion is still coming. 

Also, for some reason, there’s someone in the crowd who’s yelling “that’s not really a mountain lion, it’s a puma” and another person yelling “I read that mountain lions are allergic to kale, have you tried rubbing kale on it?” 

As you’re running up the mountain, you see other people fleeing their own mountain lions. Some of the mountain lions seem comparatively wimpy - they’re half grown and only have three legs or whatever, and you think to yourself - why couldn’t I have gotten one of those mountain lions? But then you look over at the people who are fleeing mountain lions the size of a monster truck with huge prehistoric saber fangs, and you feel like an a**h*** for even thinking that. And besides, who in their right mind would want to fight a mountain lion, even a three-legged one? 

Finally, the person closest to you, whose job it is to take care of you - maybe a parent or sibling or best friend or, in my case, my husband - comes barging out of the woods and jumps on the mountain lion, whaling on it and screaming “G**D***** MOUNTAIN LION, STOP TRYING TO EAT MY WIFE” and the mountain lion punches your husband right in the face. Now your husband (or whomever) is rolling around on the ground clutching their nose, and they've bought you some time, but you still need to get to the top of the mountain. 

Eventually you reach the top, finally, and the bear is there. Waiting. For both of you. You rush right up to the bear, and the bear rushes the mountain lion, but the bear has to go through you to get to the mountain lion, and in doing so, the bear TOTALLY KICKS YOUR A**, but not before it also punches your husband in the face. And your husband is now staggering around with a black eye and bloody nose, and saying, “can I get some help, I’ve been punched in the face by two apex predators, and I think my nose is broken,” and all you can say is “I’M KIND OF BUSY IN CASE YOU HADN’T NOTICED I’M FIGHTING A MOUNTAIN LION.” 

Then, IF YOU ARE LUCKY, the bear leaps on the mountain lion and they are locked in epic battle until finally the two of them roll off a cliff edge together, and the mountain lion is dead. 

Maybe. You’re not sure - it fell off the cliff, but mountain lions are crafty. It could come back at any moment. 

And all your friends come running up to you and say “that was amazing! You’re so brave, we’re so proud of you! You didn’t die! That must be a huge relief!” 

Meanwhile, you blew out both your knees, you’re having an asthma attack, you twisted your ankle, and also you have been mauled by a bear. And everyone says “boy, you must be excited to walk down the mountain!” And all you can think as you stagger to your feet is “f*** this mountain, I never wanted to climb it in the first place.” 

Sequel from Julia Tugwell 

So you’ve beaten the lion. But every day you have to open the fridge. For a while you expect the lion to be there every day. But it’s not. Eventually you can open the fridge with no fear. Some mornings you even forget about there was ever a lion in there. Some days you even forget about what the bear did to you. 

Ten months after my lion I opened the fridge and found a mountain lion cub. No one was sure if this cub would turn into a mountain lion or not. It may just run away and grow up somewhere else, or if I kept it it may turn into the most ferocious mountain lion ever seen and kill me. But when you’ve had a run in with a lion you try your best to avoid another. 

The guys who know best about lions say they can take the kitten away, just to be safe. As it’s not a full-grown mountain lion they don’t need a full-grown bear to kick it’s a**. A bear cub will do. Even bear cubs scratch. 

Three more times I’ve opened that fridge and found a mountain lion cub. 

Once I did just ‘watch and wait’ to see if it was going to leave or get bigger. It did get bigger and that meant a bigger bear cub was needed to sort it out before it became an adult. That one tore a chunk off me. 

But everyday you’ve got to open the fridge. Imagine that? How mentally exhausting to live in a state of perpetual uncertainty and fear. Because it’s such a horrible way to live most people who have had a brush with a mountain lion find that they do their very best to make the best of every day. That adds to the pressure. Many survivors find it a great help to lend a hand to others still running up the mountain. 

This year I found another cub. Just sitting there one day. These cubs clearly love me. Another bear, not adult, but adolescent was found to dispatch this cub. The mountains the cubs live on aren’t as tall. But by the time you’ve spent 3 years running up mountains you are totally knackered. 

Being a lion fighting, bear cub finding, mountain climbing person can be pretty dull for those around you. They’ve never found a lion in their fridge. The first time they are curious, they are pushing you along. By the 3rd or 4th time it’s only those who are absolutely closest to you that even turn up to watch let alone lend a hand. 

Most recently I opened the fridge and whilst there was no lion, nor cub, there were a few footprints in the butter. Lion experts looked and couldn’t be sure if there was a lion around without the help of yet another bear. Yet another climb up the mountain. It wasn’t a lion. It was something the last bear had left behind. Even the bears, the savage lion killers can cause problems you know. 

So. 

I never wanted to climb the mountain. Not once. Not twice. Not thrice. Not forth. Not fifth. 

Those who have never found a lion in their fridge won’t get that. 

But those who have will.
 

By Kaley Johnson

The final Respect and Kindness Lunch and Learn focused on cancer survivors, caretakers of people with cancer, and how to best support coworkers with a cancer diagnosis. Many on the call shared their personal experience and what helped or did not help them after they were diagnosed with cancer. Kathy McLean, Vice President of Brand and Experience, led the discussion and shared her own story of surviving breast cancer.

Some cancer survivors said it was difficult to ask for help or know what they needed; to help others, the group put together several lists on how best to support coworkers diagnosed with cancer or people who are caring for someone with cancer.

To help others understand what it's like to have cancer, Kathy read aloud a written piece by Caitlin Feeley called “What it’s Really Like to Receive a Cancer Diagnosis.”

Supporting someone with cancer:

-       Listen and allow them to share their feelings openly. Don’t make the conversation about you or your feelings.

-       Offer to help with everyday tasks such as house cleaning, laundry, lawn care, car maintenance, walking dogs or caring for pets and cleaning out the refrigerator. It might help to offer to do those tasks specifically instead of asking “how can I help?” The person might already feel overwhelmed; offering to do a specific task may be less overwhelming.

-       Don’t always give food: many people shared that going through chemotherapy makes eating difficult and food isn’t always the best gift.

-       Just show up: watch a movie, play cards, hang out and listen. Don’t talk about cancer if the other person doesn’t want to.

-       Treat the person as you normally would: someone with cancer may already feel like their life is abnormal. “Any sense of normalcy helps you concentrate on something other than cancer,” Kathy said. “It’s also nice to know people think of you the same way they always have.”

-       If the person is open to it, send scarves and hats. Hair loss can feel like an awkward topic, but sometimes it’s more awkward to not acknowledge it, some people on the call said.

-       Thoughtful gifts help; one woman said her leadership team would come up with a cute gift for every chemo treatment she had, which meant a lot.

How leaders and managers can help:

-       Make sure the person knows their health is the priority. One woman shared that her boss told her if she ever had to choose between a doctor’s appointment and a meeting, her medical needs should always come first.

-       If you have permission, share updates with the team so the person doesn’t have to tell each person individually.

-       Give the person permission to feel; let them know they are safe to have whatever feelings they have about their diagnosis.

-       Sit down with the person and prioritize their workload with them. Help them feel comfortable letting you or others assist with their workload.

-       Create a relaxation room or space if possible.

How to support caretakers:

-       Make sure the person knows their loved one’s health comes first. Be understanding of time off needed for medical appointments and caretaker tasks.

-       Help with tasks around house if needed.

-       Give them a gift card for a massage or other self-care to help them take time for themselves.

What NOT to say or do to someone with cancer:

-       “It’s only hair.”

-       “I know how you feel” (unless you really do know).

-       Any statement beginning with “at least” such as “at least they caught it early”.

-       “Just cut “em off, you don’t need ‘em” in response to a breast cancer diagnosis.

-       “Everything happens for a reason”.

-       “I don’t know how you’re going through this without being married”.

-       “You’re gonna be fine” or “It's going to be okay”.

-       Second guess the treatment plan or offer other treatments.

-       Suggesting “natural” or “alternative” treatments.

-       Talking about someone else who died of the same cancer.

-       Talking about how bad chemo, surgery or radiation was for your friend or other loved one.

Other resources for people with cancer or who have a loved one with cancer:

-       Joan Katz Cancer Resource Center at Baylor Scott and White: a free resource that helps cancer patients prepare for treatment and determine questions to ask doctors , and offers a nurse navigator to help navigate care.

-       Bright Horizons: An employee benefit that provides respite care for cancer patients under the direct care of Cook Children’s employees. Program offers up to 10 uses of services per year for a child or adult/relative.

-       ACS Caregivers & Family resources

-       Care ATC offers, another Cook Children's benefit. It offers confidential mental health counseling at its center on Henderson Street in Fort Worth.

-       Cancer Care Services provides therapy for free for entire family. They also have many other resources for patients and families.

June 19: Black Organization for Leadership and Development

By Kaley Johnson

On Juneteenth 2024, the Black Organization for Leadership and Development (BOLD+) Employee Resource Group hosted a Respect & Kindness Lunch and Learn session over Zoom. Participants discussed how perceptions and biases put people into boxes and how to overcome those limiting perspectives.

Brian Bergeron, Director of Environment Services and Food Services, led the conversation about how our preconceived notions about one another taint our interactions.

Much of the session was dedicated to meaningful conversation as a group and in small break-out rooms. People shared how others place them into boxes based on race, gender, age, appearance and other characteristics. Going further, staff talked about how those perceptions impact them. Some talked about how coworkers have assumed they are shy and quiet; others said they are perceived as louder than they are. One person shared they were recently thought of as “angry” when they were simply being straightforward and wondered if her race had anything to do with the label. These kinds of generalizations create barriers between people, which limits our collaboration, understanding and strengths as a workplace.

Near the end of the call, people shared their conversations from their small groups. Some focused on the importance of seeking common ground while respecting people’s differences. Others talked about how it can be difficult to know how vulnerable to be with someone about your own experiences until you know if they are bringing misconceptions into the conversation.

Some ways to overcome your own biases are:

• Don’t put people in boxes
• Educate yourself on a variety of topics, cultures and issues
• Communicate genuinely
• Analyze your own assumptions and question your preconceived notions
• Get to know people rather than rely on your biases

June 11: Women in the Workplace

By Kaley Johnson

In Lunch and Learn session six of eight, about 100 participants discussed respect and kindness with a focus on women in the workplace. 

Laura Van Hoosier, MS, APR, AVP of Public Relations and Corporate Communications and Jessamy Brown, MA, APR, Corporate Communications Manager, led Tuesday’s presentation. 

Participants in the webinar shared their personal experiences of times they felt supported, respected and encouraged at Cook Children’s -- as well as times when they did not. The group talked about struggles that impact their professional life, including imposter syndrome and difficulty saying no. Research shows that women face those challenges more frequently than their non-female colleagues. The group also discussed skills they have learned in order to overcome those challenges and how they can help others do the same. 

Some of those included: 

• Set firm boundaries.
• Celebrate your accomplishments to help overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome.
• Encourage others in the workplace and celebrate their work.
• Take time to connect on a personal level, such as going to lunch with colleagues.
• Listen intentionally to fellow female coworkers.
• Find mentors and sponsors to provide mentorship, advice and support.

Other advice was more personalized. One woman said the book Meditations by Marcus Aurelius helped her become more balanced and self-assured. Another called out specific leaders at Cook Children's who inspired them through their championing of women in the workplace. Others recommend a class on ULearn called Personality Puzzle: How We Connect with Each Other, which helps employees explore how personality influences our energy, information gathering, communication style, decision making, and overall approach to life.

Managers and leaders can help facilitate respect and confidence in the workplace by creating an environment where employees feel safe to share honest feedback. Men in leadership positions can educate themselves about issues in the workplace that disproportionately impact women. 

Many people at the webinar also shared resources to help women create a support system among coworkers. Some of those included: 

• Attending employee events 
• Joining industry associations and organizations and professional organizations such as Toastmasters
• Connecting with others via LinkedIn 
  
   

June 4: PRIDE+ (LGBTQ+) Employee Resource Group

By Kaley Johnson

On Tuesday, Cook Children’s staff attended a Lunch and Learn session that focused on respect and kindness regarding LGBTQ+ groups. The PRIDE+ ERG led the discussion about Pride Month, the importance of education and what it means to be a good ally. 

On a video and during the webinar, staff across Cook Children’s talked about their experiences either as part of the LGBTQ+ community or as an ally. 

Being an ally means providing support to a group, especially one that is marginalized. One slide of the presentation defined allyship through an acronym: 

• Always center the people impacted 
• Listen and learn from those of the dimension 
• Leverage your privilege 
• Yield the floor 
   

In the workplace, allies can show up for their LGTBQ+ colleagues in a number of ways. One person talked about the importance of creating a space where LGTBQ+ people can share their personal experiences without judgment. Sometimes, simply listening can be the most powerful gift you can offer someone. For some people, this may mean respecting someone’s experience and choices, even if you do not understand or agree with them. 

Employees talked about the significance of educating oneself if there are questions you have about the LGTBQ+ community. A little bit of research can help minimize misunderstandings and forge more genuine connections. This in turn creates a more inclusive, healthier workplace for everyone. 

Privilege was another focus of Tuesday’s webinar. Privilege can be a confusing concept -- essentially, privilege means benefits afforded to certain populations. For example, straight people have the privilege of being able to be publicly affectionate with their significant other, while people in queer relationships might worry about how people will react in public if they hold their partner’s hand. 

Finally, understanding the advantages you have that LGTBQ+ people do not can help you be a stronger ally and more compassionate coworker. 

Jacob Hall, PharmD., Clinical Pharmacist, is a Co-Chair of the LGTBQ+ ERG and led Tuesday’s discussion. Tara K. Drake, MSN, RN, RN Manager at Cook Children’s Physician Network Clinical Operations, is an ERG Co- Chair. 
 

• Visit the PRIDE+ ERG page on New CookNet for Pride Month 2024 events and a special video of PRIDE+ ERG members, who spoke about what Pride Month means to them and how colleagues can be good allies.
• In addition, here is information about a class available on ULearn to all employees: Advancing Effective Communication & Patient-Centered Care for our LGBTQI+ Patients and Families. Participants gain foundational knowledge to understand general Inclusion, Diversity and Health Equity concepts involving the LGBTQ+ community and learn the importance of communicating effectively and compassionately with our patients, families, and staff who identify as LGBTQ+.
• Have a question? Want to get connected? Send the leaders an email to: PRIDE@cookchildrens.org

May 28: Young Professionals

By Kaley Johnson

As part of the ongoing Lunch and Learn series on respect and kindness, a group of Cook Children’s staffers led a discussion focused on young professionals. 

Adam Press, an Administrative Resident in the System Planning Department, Helen Sweeney, a Nurse Manager, Tara Bradshaw, Director of Retail and Administrative Projects, and Alex Rodriguez, Administrative Resident, fostered conversation during the hour-long presentation. 

Participants shared examples of kindness and respect they have experienced at Cook Children’s that helped them grow professionally. Many young people said leaders in their department took the time to answer questions about navigating the website, medical terminology and what each department does. Others said it meant a lot when coworkers took them out to lunch and made time for one-on-one conversations when they were new on the job. 

Feeling included in the team helps young professionals feel confident and build a solid foundation for their career at Cook Children’s. That’s especially important, Alex said, because many young professionals experience “imposter syndrome.” One of the primary ways to help young professionals overcome those doubts and flourish at work is through mentorship. More experienced staff can be a safe place for new people to ask questions and learn from mistakes. 

One person said compared to other places they have worked, Cook Children’s has “raised the bar about how I expect to be treated in the workplace.” But there is always room for improvement; another person in their department said they were treated disrespectfully because of their age and needed to speak up about how they were being treated. 

Finally, a mutually respectful environment benefits everyone by creating a stronger team and, therefore, a more cohesive space for quality patient care. 
 

May 21: Employees over 40

By Kaley Johnson

The third week of Lunch and Learn sessions focusing on Respect and Kindness focused on professionals over the age of 40. Jeff Calaway, Director of Internal Communications, led the hour-long presentation.

Participants discussed their own challenges and experiences related to age in the workplace. As part of the conversation, Jeff and other staff shared resources about planning for retirement and financial security -- including Fidelity courses and Cook Children’s Medicare Choice Group for people over 65. Cook Children’s University also offers courses on various topics. To check them out, go to your ULearn dashboard, scroll down to the list of topics and click on the box that indicates the course list.

In terms of workplace respect and kindness, many people over the age of 40 discussed feeling that their younger counterparts at times make assumptions about them based on their age. Some people pointed out that younger people might assume older staff don’t know as much about technology. Others talked about the challenges of being a “sandwich generation,” in which they are simultaneously taking care of older parents and kids or grandkids. Those responsibilities can be financially and emotionally difficult.

Jeff also encouraged everyone to be curious, open and intentional about building relationships across generations.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” he said. “Many younger colleagues are eager to share their tech-savviness, and you might be surprised at how much you can learn from them. In turn, offer your experience and knowledge with patience and kindness.”

Sometimes bridging the gap between generations can feel difficult, but working together makes us stronger as a whole. Staff talked about their relationships with younger people in the workplace; several people noted that collaboration between generations creates a partnership between fresh ideas and deeper institutional knowledge.

We are at our best when we’re treating everyone with respect Here are some other tips to be as generous as we can to one another, no matter how many years separate us:

• Listen: the more you listen, the more you understand
• Find what we have in common
• Be curious about others’ opinions
• Be aware of differences in communication styles
• Stay curious instead of assuming
• Remember that empathy + action = compassion.

May 14: Veterans+ Employee Resource Group

By Kaley Johnson

On Tuesday, March 14, Cook Children’s Veterans Group hosted the second Lunch and Learn in the Respect and Kindness series. Attendees talked about misconceptions about veterans, challenges veterans face in the workplace, and how others can provide support.

Jeremy Jameson, Alisa Quimby, Sheila Guinn, and other veterans broke down some of those perceptions and educated non-veterans on various topics. For example, people serving in the military are diverse; the military is not a monolith with one type of political group, ethnicity or personality.

“Being a veteran is just one part of who I am as a person,” one veteran said during the discussion.

The veterans in the group talked about how coworkers can be respectful. Some of the tips they suggested were:

●     Welcome veterans in the workplace without treating them differently

●     Be respectful of whether or not a veteran wants to talk about their time in the military

●     Be aware that some veterans transitioning out of the military might still be learning about civilian life, such as how health insurance coverage works or different habits and expectations at work.

Another veteran shared that he had a hard time at first with the more flexible schedule outside of the military. Meetings starting late due to employees talking about their personal lives or not showing up on time was difficult to get used to, he said.

Overall, the Veterans+ group recommended that everyone follow Cook Children’s mission in compassion and kindness. 

May 7: L.E.A.D.S. Employee Resource Group

By Kaley Johnson

The L.E.A.D.S. (Latinos Engaging, Advancing, Developing & Supporting) Employee Resource Group hosted the first in series of virtual Lunch and Learn programs focused on the importance of respect and kindness in Hispanic Latino culture and its significance in everyday interactions. More than 60 Cook Children’s staff members joined the discussion, which was led over Zoom by Lisa Padilla, Erica Espinoza, Jessica Ruiz Balderrama, Michelle Espinosa, Abby Hanish and Javier Canetti. 

Over an hour, those on Tuesday’s call discussed what respect, kindness and allyship mean to them and how they can better practice those at work. Answers varied from the basic, everyday acts we can do for one another -- like opening the door or genuinely asking how someone is doing -- to more in-depth efforts, such as the balance of showing one’s authentic self at work while also adhering to a professional environment. 

Kindness, for example, can look like empowering, supporting and advocating for Hispanic and Latino employees. This advocacy creates a stronger organization so that we can be there for our community and patients. To practice kindness, try welcoming those who are different from you, show genuine caring for one another, and exercise the act of acknowledging everyone around us.

Respect can mean many things, but Erica and Michelle discussed how specifically respect can be shown for those in Latino and Hispanic communities. For example, you can show respect by considering how differences in culture can impact what they think, do and interact with coworkers, and being nonjudgmental about those differences.

Allyship is the commitment to learning and taking action to create more equitable and inclusive experiences and workplaces. In practice, allyship is active; it's what we can do for one another, specifically for those in minority or marginalized groups. 

Participants contributed their own examples of allyship, such as ingraining oneself in a marginalized group in a meaningful way, listening without judgment to members of a community and helping to dissolve negative stereotypes. 
 

Did you attend a Lunch and Learn?

Tell us in the comments about what you learned or if you have practical tips or information to share about how to show respect, kindness and allyship at work.

Join an Employee Resource Group

Cook Children's has four Employee Resource Groups at this time.  They are Veterans+, PRIDE+ (LGBTQ+), Latinos Engaging, Advancing, Developing & Supporting (LEADS+), and Black Organization for Leadership and Development (BOLD+).

ERGs are like special clubs where employees who share common interests and experiences can come together to make our workplace even better. It's a way for us to learn from each other and grow as a big Cook Children’s family.  ERGs are open to anyone who wants to join, whether you're a part of that specific group or not. Everyone is welcome! You may join any or all of the groups.

If you are interested in joining one of the Employee Resource Groups, you can follow these steps:

-       Visit ULearn on CookNet.

-       Search “Employee Resource Group”

-       Select “Employee Resource Group (ERG) Sign up”

-       Click “Register”

-       Click “Launch”

-       Complete the form.

As we celebrate Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we turn our attention toward a vibrant expression of culture: textiles. Woven with rich histories and intricate designs, these fabrics are more than just cloth; they are a tapestry of tradition passed down through generations.

Across the diverse regions of Asia, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands, textiles play a vital role in conveying the unique stories of each place. From the vibrant colors of India's saris to the intricate patterns of China's silk brocades, each textile tells a tale of cultural identity and heritage.

The skill and artistry behind these textiles are remarkable. Crafted from various natural fibers like cotton, camel hair, and silk, they hold a deep connection to the environment and the communities that create them. Experts can even determine the age, location, and use of a textile by examining its look and feel.

This May let's take a moment to appreciate the beauty and significance of Asian and Pacific Islander textiles. They are a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit and artistic traditions that continue to inspire us today.

Do you have a piece of cloth, clothing, embroidery, or other textile that has a story you'd like to share? Please send us a photo and some details and we'll post it to the Connect Newsroom. Email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

This is a Hmong baby carrier that is commonly used and passed down from generation to generation. Pictured here are my nieces Scarlett, age 8, helping carry her baby sister, two-month-old Paige.

Tracy Vang, Director, Equity and Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Anish Ray, M.D. and his family attending an Indian cultural festival. Dr. Ray is wearing a Punjabi (also known as a Kurta), his wife Ayesha is dressed in a traditional Saree, and his daughter Uma is wearing a Salwar-Kameez. Traditional Indian clothing is rich in cultural significance and diversity, reflecting the country’s vast history and regional traditions.

Do you have a piece of cloth, clothing, embroidery, or other textile that has a story you'd like to share? Please send us a photo and some details and we'll post it to the Connect Newsroom. Email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org.

What does it mean to see the world through the eyes of a colleague? It starts with empathizing with each person’s unique background – their personal story. After all, when we know more about someone, it is easier to find common ground and create deeper relationships based on mutual respect. This helps us put into practice our values of kindness and respect in interactions with one another.

"We all have a story. A story of who we are, where we come from, and where we have been. Whether our stories are different or similar, we all want to feel seen, heard, and respected. When we are fully present for others to tell their story, we help to meet these needs and experience our shared humanity. Together, we can build a bridge of kindness, generosity, and respect that connects us all and serves the greater good,” says Randi McKinney, Director, Corporate Coach, Cook Children’s University, Team Experience.

I Am From: What's YOUR Story?

Many of us attended the Breaking Ice theatrical performances about diversity, equity and in the workplace. In an exercise facilitated by the performers, participants reflected on their identities, how they grew up, how they see themselves and how others see them by writing their own "I Am From" stories.

We are sharing some of these stories here on the Kindness Corner. If you have a story to share about your background, please send it to us at InternalCommunications@CookChildrens.org. Please note whether it is okay to use your name and title or if you would like it to be posted anonymously.

I Am From

I am from refugee parents who fled a genocide.

I am from a single mother and a father who passed too soon from cancer.

I am from poverty, abuse and trauma.

I am from family and friends who I love and adore.

I am from an amazing work team.

I am from a journey of healing and faith building.

I am from a God who loves me.

By Chansey Pullen, RN, BSN, Pain Management Service Coordinator

I Am From

I am from poverty and wealth.  Education and ignorance.  Small towns, big towns, small minds, great minds.  Addiction, bipolar, broken families and nuclear families.  I am from shame.  I am from IL, IA, MN, CA, and TX.  I am from abuse and unconditional love.  I am from lived experiences, immense joy, and privilege.  I am from closed mind sets and growth mindsets.  I am from hope and forgiveness.

Rachel Wenthe, RN, BSN, MBA-HCM, CPHQ, LSSBB, Quality, Safety, and Health Equity Integration Coordinator

I Am From

I’m from a non-racist, loving, curious, immigrant mom.

I’m from a depression era father, who found it difficult to show love and hard to not be somewhat racist.

I’m from a globe-trotting family.

I’m the parent of two extraordinary young women, that I mostly raised alone.

I’ve come from a broken marriage to one with true love.

Michele Cyr, Concierge Services

I Am From

I am from a family that loves and accepts me for who I am, faults and all.

 I am from rejection and low self-esteem but accepted by my sweet family and true friends.

 I am from a military family that loves this country and am proud to be an American.

 I am from hurt, disappointment, and pain but have overcome with the help of faith, family, and friends.

 I am from a job I love and co-workers who are a joy to work with and appreciate me for what I have to offer.

 I am from making poor decisions but look for the lessons to be learned.

 I am from busyness but take time to slow down and embrace the things that bring me joy.

 I am from a forgiving, loving God who guides me through all life has and loves me unconditionally.

Lori Parrott, MSN, RN, Quality Improvement Coordinator

I Am From

I am from the land of olive trees where the purity of oil flows. 
I am from the land of poppy seeds that blossom and grow. 
I am from my refugee parents that fled a genocide that on goes. 
I am from my grandmother’s hand stiches in beautiful dresses that flow. 
I am from hateful stereotypes that assume what my religion will show. 
I am from Islam, an Arabic translation of peace, that the stereotypes appose. 
I am from my Hijab, the symbol of a Godly love and modesty enclosed. 
I am from life’s foundation built upon little moments of greatness and lows.
 

Esraa Almasri BSN, R.N. 
Clinic RN 
Cook Children’s Heart Center 
 

I Am From

I am from a childhood with not many good memories… 
I am from a mother who suffered/suffers from drug addiction. 
I am from a mother who lost her children to the system. 
I am from 8 foster homes until a single mom adopted me. 
I am from knowing I never belonged and hearing it every day. 
I am from unhappiness 
I am from abandonment issues, abuse, traumas, AND FEAR.
I am from ANGER!! 
I am from EMPATHY! 
I AM FROM BREAKING CYCLES! 
I AM FROM FORGIVENESS! 
I AM FROM ACCOUNTABILITY! 
I AM FROM HEALING! 
I AM FROM GROWTH 
I AM FROM HAPPINESS! 
I AM FROM TRUST! 
I AM FROM GIVING BACK … AND PAYING IT FORWARD.
I AM WHERE GOD WANTS / NEEDED ME TO BE. 
 

Nicole Fowler, Patient Care Technician

I Am From

I am a girl from a blended family,

I am rooted in love and affection.

I am a wife, mom, and Gigi who treasures her family so dear,

I am guiding them through both laughter and tears.

I am acceptance, flowing from my heart’s gentle stream,

I am embracing all, in every shade and dream.

I am YOUR cheerleader, rallying all souls to strive,

I am urging you to reach for greatness as you come alive.

I am a survivor of storms, medical and life’s test,

I am enduring each trial, a testament to zest.

I am one who’s known loss, parents gone too soon, carrying their love, a timeless blessing.

I am a proud military veteran’s wife, strong and true,

I am standing by, as duty calls you.

I am love, regardless of return.

I am a child of God, in His grace I stand,

I am a daughter of the King, held by his hand.

In every facet, in each part of me,

I am, I am how God created me.

Sherry A. Zanca, MBA, Director, Practice Operations, Cook Children’s Physician Network

Building Connections Through Listening: Lunch & Learns

You’ll have the opportunity to hear from Cook Children’s employees, who will lead Respect and Kindness Lunch and Learn events at noon every Tuesday in May and June on Zoom. These staffers will speak about their personal experiences and provide tips and conversations on how to connect and support one another at work. These sessions will focus on respect and kindness and should be encouraging and uplifting. Our amazing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) will be leading four of these sessions, sharing their valuable experiences. We'll also have four additional sessions centered for employees who share similar interests and identities. 

• May 7: Latinos Engaging, Advancing, Developing & Supporting (L.E.A.D.S.+) ERG 
• May 14: Veterans+ ERG 
• May 21: Employees over 40 
• May 28: Young professionals 
• June 4: Pride+ (LGBTQ+) ERG
• June 11: Women Professionals 
• Wednesday, June 19: Black Organization for Leadership and Development (BOLD+) ERG 
• June 25: Cancer survivors and supporters

Here’s where to tune in:

https://cookchildrens.zoom.us/j/92639234995?pwd=aDVEUEhMcFR0WXdLN2d3blZ5bytDdz09

 Meeting ID: 926 3923 4995

Passcode: 121210

More on listening to others' stories

Randi has a course on ULearn called LISTEN to Elevate Every Experience with more information on improving your listening skills. Sign up here. 

These sessions will be filled with practical tips and conversation to help you connect with and support your colleagues, no matter their background or position. These sessions will focus on respect and kindness and should be encouraging and uplifting. Our amazing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) will be leading four of these sessions, sharing their valuable experiences. We'll also have four additional sessions centered for employees who share similar interests and identities. 

Together, let's make Cook Children's a place where respect and kindness aren't just words – they're the foundation of what we do every day. 

Here is the schedule (subject to change). Stay tuned for more information about each session and a link to join in through Zoom. 

Here is the link to join through Zoom at noon

https://cookchildrens.zoom.us/j/92639234995?pwd=aDVEUEhMcFR0WXdLN2d3blZ5bytDdz09

Meeting ID: 926 3923 4995

Passcode: 121210

• May 7: Latinos Engaging, Advancing, Developing & Supporting (L.E.A.D.S.+) ERG 
• May 14: Veterans+ ERG 
• May 21: Employees over 40 
• May 28: Young professionals 
• June 4: Pride+ (LGBTQ+) ERG
• June 11: Women Professionals 
• Wednesday, June 19: Black Organization for Leadership and Development (BOLD+) ERG 
• June 25: Cancer survivors and supporters

Followers of the Islamic faith will celebrate Ramadan by fasting, giving Muslims a period of spiritual reflection. 

During the coming weeks, you may find some of our patient families, neighbors or coworkers celebrating Ramadan. With that in mind, we wanted to take this opportunity to provide some helpful information about this Islamic holy month. ​

When does Ramadan start? 

Ramadan begins the evening of March 10 and lasts through April 8.

If I am a Muslim, where can I go and pray?

We have a chapel on the second floor of the Main Building at Cook Children's Medical Center - Fort Worth. We have prayer rugs available in the chapel. Sacred texts of various religions are also able to be utilized in the chapel. The Meditation Room is located on the first floor of South Tower, just past Goodies to Go. 

In Prosper, sacred texts are out and available in the Prosper chapel. To request a prayer rug, please reach out to chaplains at Prosper. 

Both chapels and the Meditation Room are free of all food and drinks, making them a perfect place for prayers during Ramadan to occur. Please be respectful and not bring food or drinks to these spaces.

By the way, there are kid-friendly Ramadan activity packets in the chapels. In addition, Spiritual Care has special prayer rugs for patient families in isolation; ask a chaplain to access these. 

How do Muslims celebrate Ramadan?

Followers of the Islamic faith may celebrate Ramadan by fasting, not eating or drinking any food or water from dawn to dusk each day. These fasting periods can range from 11-16 hours per day. Before fasting each day, Muslims will begin with a pre-fast meal called “suhoor” and then begin the “Fajr,” the first prayer of the day.  

This ritual of daily fasting gives Muslims a period of spiritual reflection.  

Here are a few tips and best practices to keep in mind during the month of Ramadan:

Be aware of potential side effects of fasting. During this time, some people may experience low blood-sugar levels and/or be more tired.

Allow for flexibility, if possible. If possible, try to accommodate anyone who will engage in the required prayer five times a day. This includes allowing time for breaks and trying to provide a quiet, private space for prayer.

Consider Ramadan when scheduling events or meetings. Try not to center mandatory workplace meetings or gatherings around food and beverages. If this is not possible, be respectful that Muslim employees in attendance will not be eating. 

Appropriate greetings include:

• Ramadan Mubarak
• Blessed Ramadan
• Happy Ramadan
• Ramadan Kareem
• Generous Ramadan

Learn more:  https://www.diversityincbestpractices.com/diversityinc-digest-ramadan/

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, who dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other, a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year. Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration. 

Please look for more information about several of the women who make Cook Children's such an amazing place today.

Feature: New Heights: Cheryl Petersen, CNO & SVP for Nursing and Patient Services

Here's a list of fun facts and recognitions to celebrate women pioneers.

Last updated: March 20, 2024

Cook Children’s Neighborhood Health Centers provide a pediatric medical home for the health care needs of children. That goes beyond immunizations, sick visits and checkups. The team members at our clinics provide education, family support, connections to community resources, and a continuation of care to families across Dallas-Fort Worth. 

We talked with three remarkable women about their personal journey and what it means to serve community families in their roles.

Dayo Jolayemi, LMSW, LCSW, is a Social Worker with the integrated behavioral health team. Dayo, who has been at Cook Children’s for 11 years, is primarily located at the Renaissance Health Center on East Berry Street and the Arlington Health Center on South Cooper Street. Her main role is to conduct mental health triage/assessments, consult with physicians in crisis situations, and provide crisis intervention/safety planning. If a child has mood or behavioral changes, for example, Dayo is available to consult with the doctor, provide biopsychosocial assessment, and assist with connecting patients to the in-clinic therapists, or provide appropriate community resources. She also works with new moms, with the assistance of the in-clinic family advocates by connecting them to support groups, as well as mental and physical resources within the community as needed. 

Dayo grew up in Nigeria before moving to London and then Houston. She graduated from Texas Woman's University with a bachelor's degree in social work, and a master's degree in social work from University of Texas at Arlington -- a good match for her passion of empowering people around her and within the community, she says. Working in our Neighborhood Health Centers allows her to work with people who might otherwise have limited access to behavioral health services and/or resources. 

Sometimes, Dayo notes, she and the behavioral health team might be the first people to validate and listen to a parent’s behavioral health concerns. 

“For most of the patients we encounter, we are the first behavioral health professionals to explain behavioral health services to them and offer the option,” Dayo said. “With my role, we are able to assess and provide resources according to the patient and/or family need.” 

Dayo works with family advocates, therapists within the clinic as well as other community groups to provide families with accessible resources. 

Her favorite part about her job, Dayo said, is the team she works alongside. 

“The connection we have, and our purpose regarding the children/families we care for makes us a solid team.” 

LaTrice Carter has been the Practice Manager at the Miller Neighborhood Health Center for three years and has been with Cook Children's for a total of seven years. In her role, she ensures the clinic flows properly by making certain that providers’ schedules are accommodating for patients and by overseeing staffing needs for the clinic. 

LaTrice is familiar with this community because she grew up there, hailing from just a few streets over from the clinic where she now works. She graduated from Jarvis Christian University with a bachelor's of science degree in kinesiology and history. 

LaTrice says, “I felt the need to give back to the community and I wanted to come and work for Cook Children’s and be available for these families. It feels amazing to be able to give back to my community, provide resources and educate them.” 

The Neighborhood Health Centers are strategically placed in communities that have difficulty accessing quality healthcare, especially with Medicaid health plans. The Health Centers are able to provide patient families not only with health care, but also education and resources that they may not receive elsewhere. The clinics provide routine health care along with behavioral health care, and access to dieticians, speech therapy and family advocates. 

The Miller Health Center staff also works with the surrounding community to provide families with resources to address food insecurity and sites for local food banks. The Miller Health Center is partnered with the Cook Children’s Homeless Initiative program, allowing access for members of the community experiencing homelessness to receive quality health care. 

“It’s a privilege to work for my community and for these families to see a person of color in a leadership role,” LaTrice said. 

“As a Black woman, it’s not only important to give back to my community but show representation for minority professionals in health care. This month we celebrate Black history, and I am honored to Cook Children’s for giving me this opportunity to give back to the community where I will always belong."

Candle Johnson, CPNP-PC

Candle Johnson, CPNP-PC, is an Advanced Practice Provider at Renaissance Neighborhood Health Center. After living on the east coast, her family moved to Fort Worth when she was three years old. 

“We lived on the south side, located close to Mitchell Boulevard and Berry Street, and I attended Mitchell Boulevard Elementary School. “I had no clue of what I wanted to become in life, but I always had a passion for people and wanting to help others. I was very talkative and had an outgoing personality; I really never met a stranger.”

She took an interest in the nursing field as an undergraduate student a Midwestern State University and fell in love with nursing. After working for nine years as a registered nurse, she went back to school to earn a master's degree in pediatric nursing from Texas Woman's University to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. 

Shortly after, she accepted a position at the Renaissance clinic, which is close by to where she grew up. 

“Life truly took me full circle; I have the opportunity to serve in the community where I grew up,” Candle said. “My elementary school is in walking distance from my clinic.” 

Growing up, Candle said, she did not see many professionals who looked like her when she went to the doctor or dentist office. 

“As a Black woman, it’s not only important to give back to my community, but show representation for minority professionals in health care,” she said. "This month we celebrate Black history, and I am honored to Cook Children’s for giving me this opportunity to give back to the community where I will always belong."

 

Want to wish an employee good fortune this year? Send them an eCard!

View last year's overview of Lunar New Year here, from employees at Cook Children's. 

In the spirit of our Culture Platform, which encourages us to treat everyone “Like Family,” this year's Black History Month theme is “We Are Family.” The Black/African American Employee Resource Group (ERG) has a series of events and programming lined up for employees and patient families.  

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History has dedicated the 2024 Black History Month theme to African Americans and the arts. In the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression, the influence of Black Americans has been paramount. Stop by the Child Life Zone at Cook Children’s Medical Center – Fort Worth throughout the month to celebrate and explore the vibrant world of Black arts and artisans!

“We Are Family”

Celebrating the importance and strength of family to Black Americans. Activities for the month will be centered on how we share and live out that focus at work, at home, at school and in the community.

At Work: We've rescheduled activities that were planned for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which were postponed due to inclement weather.  Kick off our participation in chartering our first ever African American Family Advisory Council at Cook Children's.

At Home: Camelot Court at the Medical-Center-Fort Worth will offer menu items featuring Southern favorites enjoyed by families of many traditions. 

At School: Celebrating the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to the Black community.  A Cook Children's-wide HBCU day is planned, when employees can wear their favorite HBCU gear.  

In the community: Celebrating the work of National Panhellenic Greek Organizations in our communities.  A Cook Children's-wide day is planned for employees to rep their fraternity or sorority. (Week of 20^th)

On Monday, there will be opportunities at both the Medical Center-Fort Worth and Medical Center-Prosper, and our satellite offices, to drop by and make “busy books" with crayons apply lamination to board games or make cards of encouragement cards for patients getting care in the Emergency Department and Urgent Care Centers, and their siblings.

In addition,  you can continue serving the whole year through. Do you know about the Employee Volunteer Program? Employees can work one-on-one with patients and siblings, playing a vital role in providing comfort and care during a time of need. Employees who can dedicate a minimum 20 hours a year are encouraged to apply.

We hope you take advantage of this opportunity to join us as we commemorate Dr. King's work and empower our patients, their siblings and families. 

Veterans Day is a day to honor and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country. It's a time to say thank you for their service and sacrifice, and to let them know that we appreciate everything they've done to protect our freedom. 

It's so important that all of our employees who are veterans feel appreciated and valued on this important day.  Our Veterans+ Employee Resource Group (ERG) is hosting a special event that is open to all on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023. Please join us at 10 a.m. outside the Medical Center-Fort Worth in the roundabout. A flag raising will be followed by a short ceremony and refreshments inside the Atrium.

The Veterans+ ERG will also be participating in the Tarrant County Veterans Day Parade at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11 at Panther Island. Family and friends are encouraged to come out a line the route and enjoy the parade. The route starts in the Fort Worth Panther Island Pavilion parking lot, then participants will march down North Forest Park Blvd. along the Clear Fork of the Trinity River, and return.

For more information about our Veterans+ ERG, for veterans and supporters, here is an article on the Connect Newsroom.

Our special guest speaker for our Veterans Day ceremony is Gordon England, who served as the 29th Deputy Secretary of Defense from January 2006 to February 2009. He previously served as the 72nd and 73rd Secretary of the Navy and as the first Deputy Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. 

Prior to joining the administration of President George W. Bush, Mr. England served as President of the General Dynamics Fort Worth Aircraft Company (later Lockheed), President of the General Dynamics Land Systems Company and as corporate Executive Vice President of General Dynamics Information Systems and Technology Sector, Ground Combat Systems Sector and the International Sector. His business career spanned over 40 years as an engineer and senior executive. 

A native of Baltimore, Mr. England graduated from the University of Maryland in 1961 with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. In 1975 he earned a master's degree in business administration from the M.J. Neeley School of Business at Texas Christian University and is a member of business, engineering and leadership honor societies. 

Mr. England has served in a variety of civic, charitable and government organizations, including serving as a city councilman; Vice Chair, national Board of Goodwill, International, the USO's Board of Governors, the Defense Science Board, the Board of Visitors at Texas Christian University and many others. 

He has been recognized for numerous professional and service contributions by multiple universities and organizations. 
 

In 1990 President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 “National American Indian Heritage Month.” (Here is the 2023 proclamation.)

Similar proclamations, under variants on the name (including “Native American Heritage Month” and “National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month”) have been issued each year since 1994.

Learn more about Native Americans:

National Native American Heritage Month | Indian Affairs (bia.gov)

Native American History | National Archives

Cultural Competence in Caring for American Indians and Alaska Natives. June 2023. Cultural Competence in Caring for American Indians and Alaska Natives - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

American Indian Education Program (AIEP) in the Fort Worth ISD: American Indian Education Program / American Indian Education Program (fwisd.org)

National Archives at Fort Worth’s American Indian Records on Microfilm: American Indian Records on Microfilm | National Archives

Which indigenous tribes lived in North Texas? Find out with this interactive map: Map shows which Native American tribes lived in North Texas | Fort Worth Star-Telegram

TCU Native American & Indigenous Peoples Initiative: Native American & Indigenous Peoples Initiative (tcu.edu)

Lesson plans from National Education Association.

Medical Advances made by Native Americans:

·      Syringes: Used a sharpened hollowed-out bird bone and animal bladder to hold the fluids. With more study and better equipment syringes have evolved. 

·      Pain Reliever: Used willow-bark tree which has anti-inflammatory chemical called Salicin. This active ingredient (Salicin) is in used in modern medicine.

·      Mouth Wash: They used goldthread to clean out the mouth. Used for children teething by rubbing it onto the gums.

7 Native American Inventions that Revolutionized medicine & Public Health 

Native American Physicians that have impacted medicine:

·      Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte: First Native American Woman in the United States to become a doctor. She opened a hospital on the Omaha Reservation.

·      Dr. Mathuram Santosham: Professor at John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. He founded and directed center for American Indian Health. He developed the Haemophilus Influenza type b (Hib) vaccine.

Native Americans Who Impacted Healthcare Industry | Concorde Career Colleges

Events:

Native American Heritage Month: Dreamcatchers at Reby Cary Youth Library in Fort Worth: Native American Heritage Month: Dreamcatchers at Reby Cary – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth (fortworthtexas.gov)

Native American Heritage Month: Dreamcatchers at Ridglea library in Fort Worth: Native American Heritage Month: Dreamcatchers at Ridglea – Welcome to the City of Fort Worth (fortworthtexas.gov)

Where to celebrate Native American Heritage Month in Dallas-Fort Worth

3rd Annual Native American Heritage Month Contest Powwow

University of Texas at Arlington celebrates Native American Heritage Month

Places in Fort Worth to visit:

Native American History (fortworth.com)

Native American Sites in Sundance Square (fortworth.com)

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month By Visiting Texas Historic Places | THC.Texas.gov - Texas Historical Commission

Did you know?

The first American Indian Day was celebrated in May 1916 in New York. The event culminated an effort by Red Fox James, a member of the Blackfeet Nation, who rode across the nation on horseback seeking approval from 24 state governments to have a day to honor American Indians.

Susan LaFlesche Picotte was a pioneering figure in American medical history, and the first Native American woman to earn a medical degree. Women’s History Month: Honoring the Trailblazers | Office of Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity | Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (upenn.edu)

Statistics

1.5 million

The number of people who identified as Cherokee in the 2020 Census. Cherokee was the largest American Indian alone or in any combination population group in the United States in 2020.

9.7 million

The nation's American Indian and Alaska Native population alone or in combination in 2020. 

574

The number of federally recognized Indian tribes in 2023.

122,579

The number of single-race American Indian and Alaska Native veterans of the U.S. armed forces in 2022.

Source: 

U.S. Census Facts for Features: American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month: November 2023: American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month: November 2023 (census.gov)

We will be updating these links throught the month. Have a fact or detail you'd like to include? Let us know by emailing us at internalcommunications@cookchildrens.org.

By Alexis Pechek, Unit Secretary, NICU

Luciana Marie entered the world in February 2021, right after an ice storm blanketed Fort Worth. Her birth brought with it an “at birth diagnosis”- we had no prior knowledge of her heart defect or any markers suggesting Down syndrome during pregnancy. Our first glimpse of Luciana filled us with awe, but also a sense that something was different. Babies are often swollen after birth, so we initially dismissed it as that. However, the next morning, we received her diagnosis of Down syndrome and a heart defect, which left us overwhelmed. We struggled to process this unexpected news, question whether we had somehow failed her during the pregnancy. I, as her mother, felt like I had let her down when I was to protect her.

We mourned the child we envisioned and embraced, with open hearts, the child we didn’t know we needed.  Grieving was a necessary part of our journey, and we realized there was no right or wrong way to navigate it. But in the midst of our grief, we began to transform into parents we never thought we could be, thanks to Luciana. Everything we had heard about Down syndrome had been colored with negativity, and we couldn’t help but fear what the future held. But we resolved to turn things around because Luciana, like all individuals with Down syndrome, is inherently worthy.

Luciana's resilience, patience and kindness

Luciana has left an indelible mark on our lives. She has taught us resilience, patience, kindness, and above all, how to be fighters, just like her. We aspire to create a world where individuals with Down syndrome are treated equally and inclusively, where access to care, resources and support come at ease and acceptance is the norm. Luciana ignited a passion in us to advocate for her and show the world her beauty. After all, isn’t that what every parent wants for their child?

As Luciana grows, we wonder about her limitless potential. There are many misconceptions about individuals with Down syndrome, but there are also countless examples of them achieving greatness, whether as athletes, models, actors, public speakers, or students pursuing higher education in college. If we limit their opportunities, how will we ever discover what they are truly capable of or witness them thrive at life?

Raising a child with a disability is undeniably challenging, but it’s also profoundly rewarding. There’s no rulebook for parenting, especially when your child has a disability. We’ve learned to navigate this journey with the help of families who’ve walked this path before us and supportive organizations here in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, such as Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, Down Syndrome Partnership of North Texas (DSPNT), and Hope Story. Cook Children’s Medical Center has also played a crucial role in Luciana’s care.

To the parents who’ve just received a new diagnosis, we understand the fear, confusion, and uncertainty that can engulf you. I ask you to take it one day at a time and cherish your baby first, the diagnosis second. Don’t miss out on the joy of these precious early moments. Reach out to local Down syndrome organizations, seek support from friends and family, and connect with those who have traveled this journey before you. Support that has your back, guides you to resources, and advocates for individuals with Down syndrome can make all the difference.

What healthcare workers should know

Healthcare workers can also be crucial allies for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. They can advocate when needed, ensure proper care, and prevent anyone from slipping through the cracks. Volunteering or donating to local Down syndrome organizations is a tangible way to contribute and recognize their worth.

In addition, using person-first language is essential. It’s “Child with Down syndrome” or “Individual with Down syndrome”, not “Down syndrome Child” or “Downs Baby”. A disability is something they have, not who they are. We’ve also personally learned to eliminate the use of the dreaded r-word from our vocabulary. This word, even when not used negatively, is offensive and hurtful, implying that people with Down syndrome are less competent. The words we choose to describe people shape how we treat them, and changing out language can signal a shift towards greater inclusivity.

Luciana, whose name means “light” and “glowing soul”, truly lives up to her name. We chose this name before we even knew about her diagnosis, something tugging at us that she would need a strong and special name. Love radiates from every inch of her, and if you ever have the privilege of her embrace, you’ll carry it with you, forever. Luciana has been a fighter since day one, and nothing will deter us from advocating for her every single day. While this journey wasn’t what we expected, we know for a fact, it was undoubtedly what we needed in our lives.

Manager and Executive Chef DeWayne B. Pace, CDM, CFPP, is the first person to tell you he loves his job at Cook Children's Medical Center - Prosper. But when he started work in November 2022, he didn’t think the culture could possibly be authentic. With his vast experience at various health care systems and assisted living organizations, he had never seen anything like the attitude at Cook Children’s.

DeWayne was pleasantly surprised to find that fellow employees in Prosper really are kind, and that the culture isn’t empty words. Instead, it is collaborative. Generous. Respectful. And much more.  

DeWayne discovered that the culture platform is not a vague cliche, but a daily reality.

Science of nutrition and healing

Prosper coworkers suggest that kindness shows up in the food DeWayne’s team prepares for patients and families. But DeWayne says comfort food is about more than kindness in the form of good nutrition: it actually fuels patients’ abilities to heal.

Experts, scientists and even home cooks tout the science behind nutrition and healing. Hospital administrators know that patients – especially picky ones – will not eat if they don’t like the food. Their bodies need nutrients to help recover from illness or injury.

“If a child is hungry, that’s one more stressor on their plate,” DeWayne said.

DeWayne’s “food as fuel for healing and calm” philosophy has helped him serve patients and senior citizen residents over the span of a 40-year career as an executive chef, in states from Texas to Florida to California. DeWayne’s career speaks volumes about his skills when it comes to cuisine and caring for patients. On top of his finesse in the kitchen, he exudes kindness on the job.

When it comes to the overall wellbeing of a child, the National Institutes of Health agrees with DeWayne’s philosophy. In fact, there’s a critical link between nutrition and learning; it even plays a vital role in postnatal brain and behavior development during the preschool years. Food is a kindness not only to healing, but to flourishing as a child.

Good food is vital to kids getting better, but perhaps almost as important, it’s vital to the caregivers who support them.

Business reasons for good food: Patient satisfaction

The culture platform guides much of the business side of Cook Children’s, such as the hiring process. In addition to exceptional skills, references and expertise, managers look for people who are a ‘culture fit.’

Kevin Greene, the Vice President and Administrator at Cook Children’s – Prosper, knew Dwayne was the right fit for our culture during their initial interview.

“Dewayne embodies so much of what makes Cook Children’s special,” Kevin said. “Take a walk with Dewayne to his office and count the times, people stop him on the way to his office.

“You see the example Dewayne sets for his entire staff. He’s created a culture of kindness and respect. He makes our employees feel special and the work he does here makes our families feel appreciated. That culture shows in the most recent Press Ganey survey where Dewayne and his team are in the 99^th percentile in patient satisfaction scores. We are all so proud to have this incredible group of people working at Prosper.”

According to Kevin, the business of food in children’s hospitals is tricky. It must be nutritional, or kind to the body, while also being kind to the tastebuds. Finicky patients need to like the menu options, but so do families.

And families that are well-fed, in a caring environment, are happy. Kevin said he has the patient satisfaction numbers to prove it.

 Kindness inspired

Healthy eating played a vital role in DeWayne’s own healing.

Sixteen years ago, doctors gave DeWayne 72 hours to live due to a severe staph infection. The medical team told DeWayne that if he did live, he would never walk again, nor have the energy to work again.

DeWayne would go on to prove the dire predictions wrong. He said his inspiration came in the form of a fever dream in which his late grandmother, Alice Grisby, called him in his hospital room. When he answered the phone in the dream, he heard Alice’s voice tell him, ‘If you will do everything the doctors say, you will get through this.’

DeWayne believed he would heal. Alice’s “words” – her inspiration – helped DeWayne find the strength to do everything the doctors said he would need to do to get better.

After more than a year of rehabilitation, both inpatient and outpatient, after fueling his healing body with nutrition backed by science, DeWayne healed to be stronger physically, mentally and spiritually than he was prior to the infection.

Affectionally known to her family as ‘Big Mama,’ Alice inspired DeWayne to rely on his faith when he felt stressed about all the physical work it would take to recover from the damage the infection had caused to his body.

“All my life, Big Mama would say, ‘Put it in the Master’s hands,’” DeWayne recalled. “I have been driven by faith ever since learning to do this. She was the kindest person I ever knew.”

According to DeWayne, at Cook Children’s, employees are encouraged to use their ‘God-given talents’ to help people. All of Cook Children’s Health Care System employees impact people and make a difference to healing patients in their own ways every day. In DeWayne’s case, he said being himself while nourishing others is not only a kindness, but also an honor.

“You are not stifled at Cook Children’s,” DeWayne said. “Just like the kids we serve; we can be our best selves.”

To be eligible for certification the following criteria must be met:

-       Valid MLS(ASCP) or H(ASCP) certification

-       AND a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college/university

-       AND three years of full time acceptable clinical experience in Hematology in an acceptable laboratory within the last six years.

By Heather Duge

When Juanita Saldana walks through the doors at Cook Children’s, it feels like home to her. 

“The coworkers on 3 North Main are my family,” Juanita said. “We have built good relationships and work as a team. I feel so loved here.” 

For the past four years, Juanita has served as a housekeeper at Cook Children’s. Before that, she had her own housekeeping business for 30 years. Juanita said throughout all her years of cleaning, a positive attitude is most important. 

“I have always loved helping others,” Juanita said. “I don’t go to the hospital just for work or to complete a task. I treat the patients and families like my own. Everything I do is for the kids.” 

Juanita’s routine starts with preparing her cart with supplies before going through the room assignments to ensure she has the appropriate attire for special precautions. She checks in with the secretary and charge nurse to go over patients being discharged. Those rooms need more attention as they need to be completely turned over. After preparing for the day, which sometimes involves taking on an additional unit, Juanita empties out all the trash at nurse stations, restrooms, storage areas, nutrition/med rooms and patient rooms before moving on to cleaning the patients’ rooms. She cleans up spills, refills paper towels and toilet paper, cleans restrooms and replenishes supplies, sweeps and mops the floors and replaces linens. Being on her feet constantly is tiring and some days feel especially heavy, but nothing stops Juanita from helping. 

“Even if it’s the end of my shift and someone needs more help, I’m happy to do it.” 

Going above and beyond comes naturally for Juanita. Whether it’s bringing patients and families coffee, a warm blanket or helping them order food, she does it all with a smile. 

“I have five kids and two grandchildren, so I feel for these families. I always take the time to hear whatever it is they want to tell me. I want them to know I feel their pain and am here for them.” 

One day she overheard a family who lived far away and unexpectedly came to Cook Children’s talking about needing a change of clothes. Juanita immediately offered to bring them clothing from her home the next day. 

Big Bump in the Road 
Seven months ago, Juanita’s 45-minute drive to work turned treacherous. She was in a bad car accident and feared getting behind the wheel afterward. Her children begged her to find a job closer to home. But she couldn’t stand the thought of leaving Cook Children’s. 

“I love it too much,” Juanita said. “Every morning I say a special prayer to help me get there. And I trust the Lord to take care of me. I also pray throughout the day. It encourages me to do everything I can for these patients.” 

‘I feel blessed’ 
Before leaving each shift, Juanita meticulously prepares her cart for the next person who will be using it. Being a team player is part of her role, Juanita says. 

“I feel blessed to have this job. If you love your work, you’re going to feel like it’s your home.” 
 

¡Viva la cultura! Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of Americans who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. The event commemorates how Hispanic individuals and communities have influenced and continue to contribute immensely to American society at large. This is a time to appreciate and celebrate the colorful cultures, rich histories, and diversity of Hispanic American communities.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept.18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this special period.

Here are some facts about Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month has long been celebrated through events, educational programs, cultural festivals, and community activities. Dive into the arts! Discover the profound influence of Hispanic and Latino creators on art, music, and literature, from Frida Kahlo's iconic paintings to the rhythm of salsa and the magical realism of Gabriel García Márquez.  Expect lively celebrations, from colorful parades to traditional dances and delicious food festivals. This is a chance to savor mouthwatering dishes like tacos, empanadas, and paella.

The following countries celebrate their national independence during Hispanic Heritage Month: 

September 15 - Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua
September 16 - Mexico 
September 18 – Chile 

Independence dates for more Spanish-speaking nations: 

February – Dominican Republic (27th) 
May – Paraguay (14th); Cuba (20th) 
July – Venezuela (5th); Argentina (9th); Colombia (20th); Peru (28th) 
August – Bolivia (6th); Uruguay (25th) 
November – Panama (3rd) 

Here's a joyful phrase you can share during Hispanic Heritage Month

¡Feliz mes de la herencia hispana! 
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! 

Learn about Cultural Norms on the Raising Joy Podcast 
This episode of Raising Joy features a discussion about Mental Health and Cultural Norms with Jessica Gomez, Psy.D., the executive director of Momentous Institute, a nonprofit that offers mental health services and operates an elementary school. As a first-generation Mexican American, she knows firsthand the challenges of growing up in a culture that doesn't prioritize mental health. 

Dr. Gomez shares her personal story and discusses how her experiences have shaped her work. She also talks about the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to mental health care and how we can break down the stigmas surrounding mental illness.

A message from our Hispanic Family Advisory Council

Navigating health care can be difficult for families who don’t yet speak English fluently.  Hear from parents on the Hispanic Family Advisory Council and learn how they help.

Ready to Learn More? Here are Some Resources

Visit Fort Worth has more information about contributions of Hispanics in the city. 

Visit Fort Worth has five ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Fort Worth, including events to attend, places to eat, places to shop, and artwork to learn from.

Several Fort Worth organizations are hosting cultural celebrations, festivals and other events during Hispanic Heritage Month. 

Fort Worth Report has a list of cultural celebrations in Tarrant County during Hispanic Heritage Month.

The City of Dallas' Office of Arts and Culture has compiled a list of events during Hispanic Heritage Month.

The Pew Research Center has facts and statistics about Latinos in the United States.

The Texas Education Agency has compiled a list of resources to learn more about Hispanic heritage in Texas and the United States.

Learn about the history of the Mexican vaquero in Texas.

Fun Facts

Last updated:  Oct. 12, 2023

Works Cited: 

Celebrating 10 Hispanic pioneers in medicine | AAMC

14 Powerful Hispanic Contributions to Medicine (spanish.academy)

Office of the Attorney General | Attorney General: Alberto R. Gonzales | United States Department of Justice

Celebrating Hispanic Pioneers in Healthcare | Catholic Health

Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Medicine | The Oregon Clinic 

• Role of the mother as an ever-present manager of care for the hospitalized child 
• Parents felt negative feelings about their child being in the hospital, but said their child received good care 
• Parents expected nursing care to be kind, compassionate, attentive and considerate 

Jennifer discovered parents did not realize they had a right to an interpreter. She wanted to empower them and let them know how to access language services. 

“The goal is to put processes in place that are automatic and make it smooth and easy for these families to have the language access they need,” Jennifer said. 

Jennifer’s manuscript was published in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing, and presented at the Society of Pediatric Nurses conference in the spring of 2023. 

“The whole process was very enlightening,” Jennifer said. “For these parents, taking the time to communicate meant that you were caring. My hope is to help develop processes and interventions through participatory action research that will facilitate communication with nurses and parents.” 
 

Not because she’s embarrassed or ashamed, but because she’s not sure how you will react to what she wants to tell you. She hopes that we live up to our values of kindness and respect, but she understands that some of you reading this will have a very difficult time understanding the story of her transgender daughter.

Megan grew up in the church. Even as a child, she accepted a God and Jesus that loved people. It was easy for Megan to put away some of the more established beliefs and “choose people, choose acceptance and choose to value our shared humanity.”

“Fast-forward to today. Never did I think our culture would be moving further away from each other instead of closer in connection to one another around the topic of the LGBTQ community. Never did I ever anticipate being the parent of a transgender daughter. So the toxicity of these divisions now touches me daily,” Megan said. 

In her efforts to educate and find understanding, Megan answered some of the more frequently asked questions she gets about her child, who identifies using they/them and she/her pronouns.

When did you know your child was transgender?

Megan:  She came out to me two years ago at the age of 12, but I have seen signs since she was 3 years old.

Isn’t your child too young to know? Or Why don’t you try to encourage her to be straight/or to explore her gender more? 

Megan: Let’s look at the numbers. LGBTQ kids are 40% more likely to die by suicide if they do not have supportive, accepting adults in their lives. My child does not need to become a statistic because being straight makes others more comfortable. They need me to be loving and supportive. Also, if you knew my child, you would know my child has an old soul, and a deep conviction about who they are. There are very few positives at this age to being out, and a whole lot of negatives, so, they would not be out and proud if they were still questioning their identity. Also, their gender is not a reflection of my parenting decisions, but who they are at their core, and I think it would be bad parenting me to try to force them to change that. 

What do you say to people, who ask, “Is this what you want for her?”

Megan: This is the hardest one for me to answer. In a moment of complete vulnerability--No, being transgender would never be what I would have chosen for my child. Mostly because if you ask her what she expects of people when they find out that she is transgender, she will tell you, she expects rejection.  What a heavy burden for a child to bear, to look at every person they meet and think, if they knew the truth about me, without knowing any other part of me, they will reject me in my opinion, this is why allies need to be obvious about their allyship, so she knows that you will see more than just gender.

What is it you do want for her?

Megan: I want her to be seen for being more than their gender, I want my child to know that I love and accept them I hope that my unconditional love gives them the freedom and confidence to fully embrace themselves I hope that she can live in a world where it doesn’t matter who you love, but it does matter what kind of person you are.  I want her to be kind, caring, accepting, empathetic, compassionate, and maybe smart, and successful, too.

If you asked me when I was a young adult, if I ever expected to be a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ community, I would have told you ”No way.” I am thankful that my origin story is not the end of my story.  In this atmosphere, if my story resonates, I ask you to be loud and proud in your support. My kid is just one in a growing community of our patients that needs your voices to drown out the hate. My kid needs you to vote for those that truly consider the humanity of those they are supposed to serve.

What signs did you see early on that your child was transgender?

Megan: When I get this question, I certainly have funny anecdotes I could share, and if you take each of these anecdotes independently, people often feel unconvinced. 

I can tell you about their best friends from ages 3-7--the “girliest” girl you could ever meet, and a boy who loved to wear leggings and skirts My child was so curious and smitten with these attributes and with these friends, we “had” to play with them every day.

I can tell you about all the years from kindergarten to third grade when my child was obsessed with purple sparkly shoes, we had a large collection. We had to prepare them to be faced with questions from peers like, “what if someone asks you why you are wearing your sister’s shoes?”  Their response, “Do you wear clothes you like?  I like these shoes, that’s why I am wearing them.”

To the repercussion of getting in a fist fight with a best friend because the best friend was embarrassed by the feminine clothing my child was wearing. To my child’s understanding of who they are becoming even clearer to them, knowing they were losing a best friend over it

To our experiences in safe settings when my child is all dolled up with friends who know and don’t care. Their whole demeanor changes, sheer joy on their face, relaxed posture, and laughter, lots of laughter.  

Even as I am sharing these personal anecdotes, as the mom of this beautiful child, I say this out of respect for you, it honestly doesn’t matter to me if you are convinced or not. When I see my daughter being authentically herself, I know this is who they are, and I know they will be OK if we as a community can figure out how to just let them be who they naturally are.

I’ve had people who know my child will say things like…that can’t be true because your child loves math and science, your child played with trains and Legos, not dolls and dress up clothes. Toys and subjects are not gendered. Just because my child’s brain is analytical does not inform if they are male or female. Humans are complex and we have many different identities, I am female, I am a mother, I grew up outside of Texas, one specific thing is not the fullness of me. Just like being both analytical and transgender can co-exist in my child.

What are the hardest things about being the parent of a transgender child?

Megan: The transition, and the grief of giving up certain hopes and dreams for my child. It is not a light switch where one day they were male, and now they are female. It’s hard for me to not refer to my child as their birth name, and birth pronouns. Out of love and respect for my child it is so important that I do not dead name them  (referring to a person who’s transgender by the name they used before they transitioned), or misgender them, it is important for me to get this right so I try as hard as I can, and I apologize when I get wrong.

Having family members who love me, and who love my child but struggle accepting them and me (as their parent who is “allowing” them to be trans) due to deeply ingrained religious beliefs.

Having to put a level of separation between our families of origin so their beliefs don’t harm our relationships any more than they already have. It’s that phrase, “be careful who you hate, it might be someone you love” lived out in our lives. Our extended families let their hate show before they knew. The damage was done and none of us know how to do relationship repair. And though they love us, their beliefs on the topic predates even my birth. So, those beliefs still seep into our lives, in spite of their love for us, and out of protection for my child, we won’t allow those beliefs to do any more damage to our family.

Megan: Not being able to share on social media all of the ways that I am proud of my child because I know if I do, we will get push back and questions about their transition, and I don’t have emotional space to take on internet trolls who might also be friends, extended family, or past friends.

Weighing in conversation, how much can I share with you, are you a safe person? Am I putting myself or my child at risk by sharing our truth with you? When I misjudge someone’s character, being surprised by their judgement can hurt.

Can I keep my child mentally healthy?  I can cultivate a loving home but my child has already faced so much hate, and discrimination. Will our little world be enough to protect them through middle and high school in Texas?

Why stay in Texas?

Megan: This is a hard one. Both my husband and I have jobs we love, and that is not a given as a working professional. Our family lives nearby. Our kids have had years of their childhoods here so that would be hard to leave behind.  We think about this question weekly if not daily and we know if we get to the point where we cannot receive lifesaving/emergency health care for our child (which is on the table in some anti-trans bills), we will have to leave.

Congrats to our employees who reached a milestone year between May 1, 2022 and April 30, 2023. 

This year, nearly 1,200 employees are celebrating career milestones at Cook Children's - from five to 55 years of service! Thank you to this special group of employees for all you've done for our patients, their families, and each other. Your hard work, dedication, and service to your community and our Pinky Promise have helped to continue creating moments of magic for all that you serve. 

Take a look here for the list of employees hitting milestones this year! Congratulations to all! 

We could not have made it to 105 years without you!

Give your congratulations and kudos by sending any of these employees an eCard for hitting a milestone in their career.

Sharing information about cultural holidays and observances is an important way to learn about our diverse workforce and raise awareness of challenges and successes of various groups.  If you have any ideas or recommendations for upcoming cultural holidays and observances that you would like to see us cover, email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

We are so excited about the return of our Campus Cookouts! This year, several locations across the System will hold a cookout. Make sure to mark your calendars for the date of your location. We’re also providing funds for off-site locations and remote teams to plan a celebration lunch or cookout of their own – see below for all the details.

Off-Site Locations and Work-From-Home Teams

For off-site locations and 100% work-from-home teams, funds will be provided to coordinate a team lunch. Choose a date and time that works best from May 1 to June 2.

Leaders of off-site locations and work from home teams can view the instructions on how to receive and use the $20/per person inter-department transfer for their teams using the Inter Department Transfer of Funds (IDT) form.

No matter where you are in the system, we encourage you to take photos of you and your team enjoying time together in May and send them to us.

Cook Children's Night at the Ballpark on May 19

Weekly Spirit Activities and Dress-Up Days in May

The Employee Engagement team has planned an activity for each week in May. You're encouraged to participate and send in your photos.

Brain Break Winners:  The following participants will receive an email with a $5 digital Starbucks gift card.

Lauren Guerrero

Diana Medrano

Toni Moreno

Minali Patel

Sylvia Martinez

Cynthia Aguilar

Michelle Centeno

Erana Hughes

Sandra Davilla

Suzanne Adkison

Yahaira Perez knows firsthand that health care resources like Medicaid can play a critical role in keeping children and families healthy and thriving.

That’s because she was raised on food stamps and her family relied on the government program, which provides for health insurance for those with limited income and means.

Now, Yahaira, Director of Accounting for Cook Children’s Health Plan (CCHP), helps advocate for access to Medicaid managed care programs, spreading the word about how Texas families can gain and retain coverage available to them.

Yahaira recently participated in a leadership program sponsored by the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP), which works with legislators and leaders across the nation to advocate for underserved communities to have access to health care resources. Every year, ACAP chooses a representative from its nationwide health plan network to participate in its Leadership Academy and learn about issues related to Medicaid managed care programs.  

Yahaira says she was honored to have been selected to represent Cook Children’s Health Plan.

“I never thought it would be such a great learning opportunity, exceeding my expectations,” Yahaira said. “I feel really grateful to be asked to participate.”

During the Leadership Academy, Yahaira attended meetings and webinars with CEOs and other top executives, took trips to Washington, D.C., and networked with lobbyists. Yahaira officially obtained a Certificate of Emerging Leadership in February 2023.

Dedicated to serving marginalized communities, Yahaira is looking forward to using the tools she learned, further understanding of what’s next for Medicaid, and being more involved with the organization’s work.

Yahaira has another reason to be proud of representing Cook Children’s: her daughter had successful open heart surgery here in 2019.

“I have been a part of the (Fort Worth) Medical Center as an employee and mother, and the amazing work the staff does is why I really enjoy and love my job,” she said. “It’s a great satisfaction representing Cook Children’s and having the opportunity to speak about the Health Plan.”

Employees like Yahaira showcase the willingness to go the extra mile to help provide our patients and families with all the tools they need, as we work to fulfill our Promise. Congratulations to Yahaira and the Health Plan team. You’ve made your family at Cook Children’s proud.

About Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP) Leadership Academy

Association for Community Affiliated Plans Leadership Academy is a one-year program that uses an experiential learning process including in-person meetings, virtual meetings, and peer and executive leadership networking to inform and educate up-and-coming plan staff on important issues related to Medicaid managed care programs. Participants discuss key issues for Safety Net Health Plan operations, such as the role of population health and Special Needs Housing Program (SNHP), how to maximize the impact of community plans, innovation in delivery systems, and the role of quality and data in improving outcomes. Participants earn an ACAP Certificate of Emerging Leadership.

March is Women’s History Month. While the country commemorates the role of women in American History, at Cook Children’s Health Care System, we celebrate the role of women in building one of the largest free-standing pediatric health centers in the country. 

After all, it was the vision and generosity of two women that started it all. 

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other was a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year.

Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration.

While these women number in the thousands throughout Cook Children’s history, this year, we’re highlighting a few who have made their mark in medicine. Each comes from different backgrounds, different specialties and different decades, but they all share two things — a passion for their work and the Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities.

Candace Gamble, M.D.

Medical Director, Genetics

Years at Cook Children’s: 7

As a geneticist, Candace Gamble, M.D., puts together the pieces of a patient’s genetic puzzle, including medical and family histories and genetic testing results, to identify an underlying disorder. Once a diagnosis is made, she and her team help patients and their families navigate their health care needs through counseling and advocacy. 

In college, Dr. Gamble thought she wanted to be a lawyer, but after a little more than a year following that path, she realized her heart wasn’t connecting with the legal profession. So she pivoted and found her calling in the biological sciences. 

“I look at my work as a calling when the days and weeks become difficult, so my faith is what does it for me,” Dr. Gamble said of what gets her through adversity. “I’m not sure I could have made it through this long journey to medicine without my faith foundation. It’s not about me and my accomplishments, but about my divine purpose.”

Watching her team work together to find creative solutions to overcome recent staffing challenges is one of her proudest moments at Cook Children’s. Dr. Gamble said each person in her department, from administration to clinical staff to the nurse practitioners and fellow doctors, has been incredible team players and instrumental in developing creative solutions to continue to meet their patient’s health and well-being needs. 

“I love caring for our patients but my work family in genetics makes it so much easier,” she said.

During her residency, and thanks to the influence of one of her mentors, Dr. Gamble became interested in the study of skeletal dysplasias, a category of rare genetic disorders that affect a baby’s bones, joints and growth. She has been an investigator in several skeletal dysplasia research studies and a contributor to many publications.

“Much of the research I have done was all natural history studies, learning more about the disease process and how they affect patients,” she said. “But now we are entering an exciting time where treatment options are available for specific conditions and patients and families that desire treatment. One example of this is vosoritide, a daily injection that can be used for those with achondroplasia, which is the most common skeletal dysplasia, to increase final adult height.”

Having a mentor, she said, kept her moving forward in the pursuit of her passion. Dr. Gamble encourages other women working towards a career in health care to find someone, in medicine or another profession, that will hold them accountable to their dreams and goals. 

“Those dreams were put upon your heart for a reason, and I truly believe they are part of your destiny and purpose,” she said. “Having a mentor is especially important for women of color who may lack access to tangible representation in a certain field.”

By Ashley Antle

March is Women’s History Month. While the country commemorates the role of women in American History, at Cook Children’s Health Care System, we celebrate the role of women in building one of the largest free-standing pediatric health centers in the country. 

After all, it was the vision and generosity of two women that started it all. 

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other was a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year.

Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration.

While these women number in the thousands throughout Cook Children’s history, this year, we’re highlighting a few who have made their mark in medicine. Each comes from different backgrounds, different specialties and different decades, but they all share two things — a passion for their work and the Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities.

Carla Smith, D.O., FACOP, FAAP

Pediatrician at Cook Children’s Pediatrics Burleson

Years at Cook Children’s: 14

Carla Smith, D.O., was a member of one of the first graduating classes at the University of North Texas Health Sciences Center in 1979 — one of only three females out of 70 students. Even so, she doesn’t consider herself a trailblazer for women in medicine.

“You become a family with the people that you spend that much time with,” Dr. Smith said. “As students, we all just wanted each of us to succeed, not caring if we were male or female.”

Dr. Smith can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to be a doctor. She knew, even as a child, that she would pursue a career in medicine. The desire to be a pediatrician came during her pediatric rotations in medical school. 

“I realized how much I enjoyed working with children and their zest for life and wellness,” she said. “And possibly a little bit of selfishness as I realized that children love to be well, and they could make me laugh and help me keep a young and healthy attitude.”

Dr. Smith was one of the first locums doctors for the system. A locums doctor is one who works on a temporary basis for another physician. She initially worked part-time for a Cook Children’s physician in Granbury who needed a day off each week to be with her young children, and went on to work temporarily at many local physician offices when they needed someone to fill in. 

Then, in 2010, Cook Children’s built a clinic in Burleson, where Dr. Smith lived since 1995. She jumped at the chance to work full-time in her own community. 

“I was hired, as was Dr. Lanna McClain, and I can honestly say that we both cried when we arrived at our beautiful office for the first time,” she said. “That is my proudest moment, the opening of the Burleson office, and being able to work in my hometown! It has now been open for 13 years. A fantastic office with three physicians, two nurse practitioners, a great office manager and a great staff.”

The journey to becoming a pediatrician wasn’t always easy, she said, but Dr. Smith wants other women considering a career in medicine to know the hours of study, training and sacrifice were worth it. And when they get overwhelmed, to do what one of her professors once told her: “Take it one step at a time.”

March is Women’s History Month. While the country commemorates the role of women in American History, at Cook Children’s Health Care System, we celebrate the role of women in building one of the largest free-standing pediatric health centers in the country. 

After all, it was the vision and generosity of two women that started it all. 

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other was a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year.

Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration.

While these women number in the thousands throughout Cook Children’s history, this year, we’re highlighting a few who have made their mark in medicine. Each comes from different backgrounds, different specialties and different decades, but they all share two things — a passion for their work and the Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities.

Shanna Combs, M.D., FACOG

Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology

Years at Cook Children’s: 2

Shanna Combs, M.D., is the first pediatric and adolescent gynecologist in the history of Cook Children's Medical Center. While her dad says she talked about wanting to be a doctor as a child, Dr. Combs chose to study ballet at Texas Christian University and initially pursued a career in dance.

But the desire to do something that would help people drew her focus back to medicine. Even then, Dr. Combs swore she would never be an OB/GYN. Her first rotation in women’s health changed her mind. 

“I love the diversity of the field and taking care of women throughout their life,” Dr. Combs said. “Delivering babies, there is still nothing cooler. I do that for fun on the weekends.”

As for her path into the subspecialty of pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG), Dr. Combs unintentionally worked her way into it. 

When Dr. Combs first became a doctor, her OB/GYN clinic was a few floors above a pediatric health clinic, and her office received a number of referrals from pediatricians there. Turns out she really enjoyed treating children and teen girls. Years later, when Cook Children’s was looking for a gynecologist, Dr. Combs happened to be ready for a new challenge. The rest, as they say, is history.  

“I have just always been passionate about taking care of little ladies,” she said of her transition into full-time pediatric medicine. 

Dr. Combs says the PAG subspecialty is fairly new to the world of obstetrics and gynecology. There are only 18 academic medical centers in the United States with PAG fellowships, according to the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. 

In her Cook Children’s practice, Dr. Combs treats girls ages newborn to 22, with the majority being in the tween to teen stage. Most of the time she helps them navigate issues with menstruation. She also treats medically complex kids who need care for hormonal and menstrual issues, as well as children diagnosed with an ovarian or pelvic mass. 

Her advice to women considering a career in medicine is to choose an area that you really love. 

“Pick your passion,” she said. “That’s the secret sauce. If you pick what you're passionate about and you enjoy the work that you do, you'll never go wrong.”

March is Women’s History Month. While the country commemorates the role of women in American History, at Cook Children’s Health Care System, we celebrate the role of women in building one of the largest free-standing pediatric health centers in the country. 

After all, it was the vision and generosity of two women that started it all. 

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other was a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year.

Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration.

While these women number in the thousands throughout Cook Children’s history, this year, we’re highlighting a few who have made their mark in medicine. Each comes from different backgrounds, different specialties and different decades, but they all share two things — a passion for their work and the Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities.

Lisa Elliott, Ph.D., Psychologist

Manager of Cook Children’s Behavioral Health Clinic in Denton

Years at Cook Children’s: 29

Psychology is a second career for Lisa Elliott. Initially a human resources director with a degree in business, Dr. Elliott began taking psychology classes to better understand how to help the employees she represented. 

“I would have to call in employees for failure to show up to work, wage garnishments or disciplinary actions, and there were always reasons for that, like family, emotional or mental struggles,” she said. “So I decided to enroll in a couple of psychology courses where we were living at the time to get an understanding of how I could better help our employees.”

Dr. Elliott found the courses fascinating and impressed her professors, who encouraged her to continue her path in the field. She eventually applied to and was accepted into the doctoral program at the University of North Texas, where she specialized in neuropsychology. 

Dr. Elliott calls herself a non-traditional neuropsychologist because she uses both the therapy side of psychology and the testing and research side of neuropsychology. 

“I always thought I wanted to do therapy, but that's when I felt like you could nurture anyone into health,” Dr. Elliott said. “Then I discovered that nature and what a child is exposed to in utero is a huge piece of this, too. That's when I changed and recognized the value of testing and started a huge focus also in neuropsych.”

In 1994, she developed and opened Cook Children’s first outpatient behavioral health therapy clinic in a 500-square-foot office in Denton. Within months, demand for the service forced the clinic into a bigger space.

Dr. Elliott mentors and trains the next generation of neuropsychologists, too. For 22 years she has led a neuropsychology fellowship program that provides training for those completing graduate degrees and those completing requirements for full licensure.  

While impactful, neither of these accomplishments make her proudest moments list. For that, she thinks only of her patients. 

“This isn’t about me,” she said of her work. “What gets me in my little happy zone is actually when I see my patients’ success and see them excel, thrive and take pride in the coping skills they've learned and their increased self-confidence and self-esteem, that brings me to tears.”

When adversity comes, Dr. Elliott turns to prayer and leans on her source of hope — her faith in God. Then, she looks for ways to serve others.

“I've always made the decision that, not only do I want to look for the helpers when there is trouble, but I want to be the helper,” she said. “I want to model that hope, kindness and compassion. When we are doing for others, that also helps us through our own personal adversity.”

March is Women’s History Month. While the country commemorates the role of women in American History, at Cook Children’s Health Care System, we celebrate the role of women in building one of the largest free-standing pediatric health centers in the country. 

After all, it was the vision and generosity of two women that started it all. 

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other was a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year.

Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration.

While these women number in the thousands throughout Cook Children’s history, this year, we’re highlighting a few who have made their mark in medicine. Each comes from different backgrounds, different specialties and different decades, but they all share two things — a passion for their work and the Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities.

Elizabeth Leeper, MSN, RN, CNOR

Manager of Surgical Clinical Excellence

Years at Cook Children’s: 27

Elizabeth Leeper has been a staple in Cook Children’s surgery department since she began as an operating room nurse in 1996. Today, she is the manager of surgical clinical excellence, a role she pioneered in 2017 and built from the ground up. So far, she is the first and only one to hold the position. 

Leeper and her team of three reviews every single surgical case at Cook Children’s Medical Center to monitor for quality and safety. It’s no small feat for her small department. Under Leeper’s leadership, their hard work earned Cook Children’s a Level I designation as a Children’s Surgery Verified program from the American College of Surgeons. 

To achieve this designation, hospitals must meet a rigorous set of safety standards and demonstrate they have the resources needed to provide children with high-quality surgical care. There are only five pediatric hospitals in Texas that have this designation, and Cook Children’s was the first in North Texas to be named a Children’s Surgery Verified program in 2019. 

“By the time I finished our application, it was over 100 pages,” Leeper said. “They look at basically any part of the hospital system that might potentially touch a patient, and want to know information about that. I had to gather information from the lab, pharmacy, radiology, transport, all our surgeons, administration … you name it. I'm in the middle of our renewal application right now, so I'm working on pulling that information together.”

Leeper doesn’t mind the endless information collection and review. She follows in the footsteps of her childhood inspiration and founder of modern professional nursing, Florence Nightingale, who also used statistics and data to improve health care as far back as the mid-1800s.

“I discovered how much of a data nerd I really am,” she said. 

Today, Leeper draws inspiration for life and work from her daughter. 

“We have an adult daughter with a really rare neuromuscular disease,” she explained. “She lives with us and is wheelchair-bound. Knowing that she gets up every day and watching her deal with what she has to deal with, I know that if she can do it, I can do whatever is before me.”

When the load gets heavy, Leeper leans on her faith and prayer to carry her through.   

“Just being able to know that there is a God, and he does love us and that he takes care of us is an important part of my life,” she said. “I know that he's there even though, sometimes, it's hard to see.”

One, a former postmistress with few financial resources, Mrs. Ida L. Turner, who dreamed of a place where fragile babies would be cared for regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Her vision and hard work led to the opening of the Fort Worth Free Baby Hospital in 1918. 

The other, a wealthy heiress who wanted to honor her late husband by helping sick children. In 1929, Mrs. Missouri Matilda Nail Cook dedicated the oil royalties from the Cook Ranch to build the W.I. Cook Memorial Hospital. 

Eventually, the two children’s hospitals became one and grew to be one of the finest pediatric medical institutions in the country with more than 1.5 million patient encounters every year. Throughout our 105-year history, the women of Cook Children’s have championed children; nurtured the sick and hurting; led innovation in science, medicine and technology; and steered the business of health care with imagination, safety, generosity, kindness, respect and collaboration. While these women number in the thousands over the course of Cook Children’s history, this year, we’re highlighting a few who have made their mark in medicine. Each comes from different backgrounds, different specialties and different decades, but they all share two things — a passion for their work and the Promise to improve the well-being of every child in our care and our communities. 

VIDEO: We went around and asked our Cook Children's employees to tell us about a Woman Who Inspires Them, and here's what they said. 

Want to share your story or highlight a woman at Cook Children's? Email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org with an overview of what you want to share for Women's History Month. 

Meet Dr. Candace Gamble, a geneticist and skeletal dysplasia investigator. She looks to her career as her calling, relying on her faith and the team she leads, keeps her well-rounded and focused on her divine purpose to serve others. 

Dr. Carla Smith, D.O. is a trailblazer and inspiration to many at Cook Children's. She's always wanted to be a doctor and pediatrician, and loves working with children and their love for health and wellness.  

Dr. Lisa Elliott completely changed her path when she transitioned from human resources to psychology. Opening the first outpatient behavioral health clinic, for 22 years Dr. Elliott leads a fellowship program that trains and mentors aspiring neuropsychologists.

Dr. Shanna Combs, our first pediatric and adolescent gynecologist (PAG) in the history of Cook Children's never saw herself as an OB/GYN, now Dr. Combs describes how she landed in the world of PAG.  

Elizabeth Leeper, Manager of Surgical Excellence, opens up about her journey with Cook Children's and what inspires her to continue to aim for success. Get to know Elizaeth Leeper. 

Here's a list of fun facts and recognitions to celebrate women pioneers.

Last updated: March 3, 2023

Work cited: 

Celebrating 10 women medical pioneers | AAMC

Judy Heumann, trailblazing disability rights advocate, dies at 75 | PBS NewsHour

“I would like to recognize the Utilization Management (UM) Therapy Reviewer Team for their commitment to maintaining integrity and compassion with reviewing therapy referrals for prior authorization. The team has continued to operate in excellence and make decisions by collaborating with referring providers, therapy providers and service coordinators to ensure information is received and that decisions are made following the rules and guidelines set forth by the State of Texas. The UM Therapy Team goes above and beyond to make sure that determinations are accurate, timely, ethical and medically necessary. The team is committed to being content experts in their respective fields of occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy. Please join me in celebrating the UM Therapy Team: Alisa MacFarland, Denise Montes, Melissa Smith, Molly McNown, Monica Sterling, Nicole Davault, Sandra Heaslet, and Suzan Skelton! Their commitment to helping our community access medically necessary therapy services is above reproach.”

- Carla Chitwood

“They are a hard-working and dedicated team. They exhibit great work on a daily basis by covering for each other and helping the teammates out when needed. I appreciate all this group does to ensure their work is completed timely, and the support they give to each other.” 

- Nikki Lobdell

“I would like to give a tremendous shout out to the STAR Kids MDCP Service Coordinator team at the Health Plan. In November, they were tasked with creating over 1000 new referrals (authorizations) in a very short period of time due to a mandated code change from HHSC. Because of their hard work, all of their members were able to continue services without skipping a beat and with most not even noticing a change was made. Thank you MDCP Team!!!”

- Allison Hays

"I would like to send a shout out to my team. My team of physicians, NP’s, nurses, MA’s and front office staff have been amazing this year. We went from a staff of 16 to a staff of 11. We had 3 clinical staff and 2 front office staff taking care of 5 providers. Each month we had a new hire to add to the mix. During this stressful time my physicians and NP’s pitched in to help our clinical staff to keep up with their daily duties, patient care and triage.  Many days our NP worked without a nurse and our 2 front office staff answered more than 300 calls and checked in over 130 patients per day. The staff were patient centered and did not complain. I was honored to be their manager and to call them my amazing staff. We are back to being fully staff and have an awesome team. Thanks team! You are appreciated."

- Minde Hazlewood

“Shoutout to our Children’s Home Health Team for embracing togetherness and collaborating to assure that the needs of the patients we serve within our communities, near and far are taken care of.  In an environment where needs arise at all hours and staff are needed to respond, our teams always show their generosity and kindness and assist where help is needed. From our MDSTs driving clinicians to patient visits during the ice storm, staff changing a peer's flat tire, peer collaboration through surveys, our staff are the greatest and I am privileged to be a part of this team.  I greatly appreciate you.”

- Sandra Manning

“This team of Community Health Workers helps families manage their child’s asthma at home. They work hard to make our services accessible and help to remove as many barriers to care the family may face in the community. They model Cook Children’s standards to connect with families/team members and elevate every experience so that families can access the education, support, and services they need to keep their kids healthy!”

- Courtney Barnard

"I would like to shout out the Utilization Management Department at Cook Children’s Health Plan. This team includes an extraordinary group of Utilization Review Specialist, Registered Nurses, Licensed Vocational nurses, Licensed Professional Counselors, and Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapist that work diligent to ensure the promise of Cook Children’s Health Care System. When I think of how our team works, it reminds me of a Super Bowl half-time show. From the back stage crew to the lead performer, each person has a contribution that must be executed at the right time and place to make the final performance a success. On a daily basis, each team member ‘practices’ to make our half-time show stellar. I am proud to work with such dedicated individuals and honored to lead such an amazing team."

- Audrianna Leeper

"BIG shoutout to the field nurse team at Home Health for creating moments of magic with each patient home they enter! Providing highly skilled procedures and infusions in a patient home requires a great deal of imagination, not only to keep the physical environment safe for the procedure, but also the emotional/psychological aspects of receiving port access, PICC/CVL dressing changes, wound vac changes, injections, infusions, ostomy care, enteral feedings/NG tube placement at home. I have had the privilege to observe the respect, kindness and trust the nurses have built with the patients we serve, and it is truly magical to see the eyes light up on the kiddos and the anxiety wash away from the caregivers.  The team is small but mighty and always generous with their time to make sure each patient is transitioned safety to home from the hospital. Another BIG “shoutout” to the internal support home health nurse team.  Each and every day the internal nurse team collaborates with the intake, pharmacy, warehouse, staffing teams, physicians and referrals sources to make sure the field nurses have the tools they need for the patient home visits. You are seen and appreciated!"

- Ann Little

"Want to give a shout-out to telecom, they’re always helping CCHH out on short notice and ensuring we’re taken care of quickly. Telecom really stepped up during the ice storm last month, providing quick service to ensure phones were routed properly and assist with implementing a fix to allow calls to be transferred to multiple people rather than all calls getting transferred to one individual person. For telecom, this might have been a little request, but for CCHH staff this was a huge relief as individuals were getting overwhelmed with up to four calls at time from answering service and this fix, allowed for calls to ring to all phones within that department and any available staff working from home would be able to answer. "

- Amanda Vespremi 

Distinct from recognition weeks dedicated to thanking those in various professional roles, sharing information about cultural holidays and observances is an important way to learn about our diverse workforce and raise awareness of challenges and successes of various groups. 

If you have any ideas or recommendations for upcoming cultural holidays and observances that you would like to see, email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org  

We asked our employees to share their thoughts on Black History Month at Cook Children's and here's what they had to say: 

Spotlight: Dr. LaQuatre Rhodes is Passionate About her Pediatric Gastroenterology Patients

Watch: A Message from Stan Davis on Black History Month at Cook Children's (cookchildrensconnect.com)

The Spiritual Care team has provided information about Black faith leaders from around the country and their significant contributions: Get to know these powerful faith leaders in the Black community across the U.S.

Greetings from Prosper!

These links are resources you can utilize to learn more about Black History: 

Governor Abbott Proclaims February 2023 As Black History Month In Texas | Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott 

Exhibits - African American Museum Of Dallas (aamdallas.org)

African American History Self-Guided Tour (fortworth.com)

Current Special Exhibition - Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum (dhhrm.org)

The Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum | Fort Worth, TX 76104-3719

Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society

Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society - The Portal to Texas History

Fort Worth, Texas, Where the West and the South Meet: A Brief History of the City's African American Community, 1849-2012 • (blackpast.org)

The African American Story | Texas State History Museum (thestoryoftexas.com)

TSHA | African Americans (tshaonline.org)

Black History Fun Facts 

Last updated: Feb. 23, 2023

Works Cited: 

Celebrating 10 African-American medical pioneers | AAMC

Biography: Mary Eliza Mahoney (womenshistory.org)

The Remarkable Story of Vivien Thomas, the Black Man Who Helped Invent Heart Surgery - Washingtonian

Dallas-Fort Worth Black Living Legends: Medicine - Exhibits - University Libraries - UNT

9 African American pioneers in medicine | American Heart Association

Honoring Black Americans’ Contributions to Medicine | AAFP

Freedom House: America’s first paramedics were Black men | wfaa.com

Happy Lunar New Year to all that celebrate! 

Click here to send an eCard. 

Places to celebrate Lunar New Year. 

With that in mind, we are announcing a brand-new opportunity for employees to make their voices heard at Cook Children's. At this time, we are accepting a limited number of applicants for the employee-driven ID&E Task Force. We are limiting the number of ID&E Task Force team members to make sure everyone has plenty of time to be listened to as we move forward.

As Chief Diversity Officer Wini King said upon her hiring, "it is comforting to be a part of an organization that accepts our differences, our failures, and is willing to look inward and truly examine what is at the heart of our culture."

Wini added, "I believe stories have the power to create empathy and allow us to see others through a different lens than our own. I want the entire health care system to be thinking about how their actions, their work, and their speech impacts others negatively and positively."

How To Apply

To apply for the task force, we need some information from you. Your answers will not be published. They will go directly to our Cook Children's ID&E team. Please email the information below to Tracy Vang, director of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity at Tracy.Vang@cookchildrens.org. 

Application Information

Please provide in your email to Tracy, please provide how you identify in areas that you may not always feel comfortable sharing:

• Your name (preferred name)
• Email address
• How long have you been employed at Cook Children's?
• Are you bilingual (Do you speak another language besides English?)
• Do you have a disability? Yes/No
• Are you a veteran? Yes/No
• What is your age?
• What is your race/ethnicity?
• What is your religion/religious affiliation?
• Do you identify as LGBTQ+?
• What is your gender identity (agender, genderqueer, genderfluid, man, nonbinary, questioning or unsure, woman)?  

Then please answer the following questions in your email:

1. Why do you want to be a member of the ID&E Task Force?
2. What makes you unique and how would that benefit the Task Force?
3. How have you been involved with ID&E at Cook Children’s or outside of Cook Children’s?
4. What impact or difference were you able to make?
5. What have you done to learn more about ID&E?

Thank you for being such a valuable member of the Cook Children's family. We look forward to hearing from you.

Tears come far too often these days. Most recently, there have been two devastating car wrecks in West Texas and Oklahoma where several of our young people perished, and we continue to watch the tragedy in Ukraine play out in front of our very eyes. But at the same time, you’ve probably been inspired by the Ukrainian people’s bravery, passion and compassion for one another.

I’ve found that out of tragedy, we often times find positive change that can truly make a difference. After all, that’s our job isn’t it? Not only in our professional lives, but in our personal ones too.

I think back to May 25, 2020, as the tears rolled down my face on that day. Like so many others, I watched in horror the footage of a police officer taking the life of George Floyd. I thought of my son, a young, proud Black man.

I asked myself, “Would any good ever come from this?”

Then something happened that changed the course of my life and made a huge impact on my health care system.

Rick Merrill, our president and CEO, invited our employees to meet him in the atrium of Cook Children’s. We would gather and observe 9 minutes and 29 seconds of silence, which marked how long a police officer knelt on Mr. Floyd’s neck.

I took a knee and said a prayer that day, trying to find some comfort in this senseless tragedy. Little did I know that some answers to my prayers were on the way. I looked over and kneeling only a few feet away were Mr. Merrill and Keith Holtz, our Chief Administrative Officer. They were in their own thoughts for nearly 10 minutes. 

Later that year, Mr. Merrill made a decision that would have a profound impact on my life and our entire organization.

He decided it was time to bring a new position to our organization, and he wanted to hire our first chief inclusion, diversity and equity officer.

After a search, I was told a hiring decision had been made. You could have knocked me over with a feather when I was told that the choice for this new job was me.

I wondered if I heard correctly. After all, I spent my entire career in communications and public relations. What on earth could prepare me for this job?

Well, for one thing I’ve lived my more than 60 years on this earth as a strong Black woman. Make no mistake, my life experiences growing up in Oklahoma prepared me for a lot that came my way. With my own son, I prayed for him to come home safely every time he left my house. Even today, as a grown man, his safety is at the top of my prayers.

Along with my own life experiences, a career in communications taught me to listen to others. I sought out stories. I searched for the truth. Sometimes, the truth was a lot more than I bargained for, but I wanted to hear it and I wanted to face it head on.

My role as a communicator and my life experiences led me to this moment.

Local resources

The sense of inclusion and belonging means so much to all of us, doesn’t it? That’s why I’m so glad to be a member of the Greater Fort Worth Chapter of PRSA and to serve as its Diversity Committee Chair. I’m proud to be a member of a group that encourages diversity, while never being afraid to say we can always do better.

For more than a decade, PRSA’s leaders have worked to bring attention to the diversity in the public relations profession. Part of our mission is “to make PRSA more inclusive and welcoming by reaching out to industry professionals of diverse racial backgrounds, ethnicities and sexual orientations.”  Even back in 2008, the chapter received a diversity award from the national organization of PRSA for our programming efforts around inclusion. Hats off to Glenda Thompson, our diversity chair at the time.

PRSA’s national’s mission statement goes on to talk about PRSA’s goal to “develop industry knowledge, relevant skills and a network of professional contacts: and bring multicultural understanding and expertise to public relations professionals in order to address the diverse audiences in the nation.”

That’s a beautiful thing. If you haven’t visited our Greater Fort Worth’s Chapter web page on diversity, I highly encourage you to click here and take some time to read all the resources available to you.

I also want to invite you to consider joining me on our diversity journey. Where would you like to see our chapter focus our inclusion, diversity and equity efforts? I would love to start a conversation with you. Please email me at winifred.king@cookchildrens.org.

The only way to make progress is for ALL of us to work together.

As Black History Month just ended and Women’s History Month wraps up, I think about how I’ve spent my life fighting to show that I belong at the table. Now I’m sitting at the head of the table, and I’m inviting everyone to pull up a chair alongside me.

But don’t think that you are just going to ease back and enjoy the meal. I challenge all of our members to use their role as communicators to help create a voice for the voiceless in their organizations.

I pray now during these trying and unsettling times that we will someday find our way to a more peaceful and inclusive place for all.

Children’s Hospitals Today caught up with Dr. Bowen-Jallow to discuss her journey, the challenges she’s overcome and the next generation of Black doctors.

Read her full interview here. 

Although the national rate is so low, we're proud to have five Black specialists, out of 14 currently practicing at Cook Children's Pediatrics Specialties Prosper. 

As we celebrate Black History Month this February, doctors Tony Anani, Kanika Bowen-Jallow, Brittney Pryor Craig, Danielle Moyé and Damian Campbell recently sat down to share their individual stories and unique journeys to get to where they are at now. 

Watch each of the interviews here: 

Today we remember and celebrate the life and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who showed the world how to fight battles not with violence, but instead with peace.

As we begin year three of the global pandemic and carry the burden of COVID-19, we understand that it’s not always easy to find peace in your own world right now.  Life feels heavy and sometimes overwhelming. On this day, I’d like to pause and reflect on Dr. King’s legacy and his message of love, compassion and unending kindness.

Did you know that MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service? Americans are encouraged to volunteer to engage and improve their communities. Dr. King’s example is our call to action.

Dr. King said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

As an employee at Cook Children’s, you are living up to Our Promise to improve the health of every child, every day. This is such a special organization with an incredible culture of love, healing and togetherness. But I also know so many of you go beyond our walls to be active in your local communities, schools, churches, nonprofits and more.

While you continue to work side by side, it’s more important than ever before to find ways to collectively serve and be kind to one another. I invite you to ask a peer, “How are you doing?” and then really listen to their response. A small act that can go such a long way. We also need to turn inwards and give ourselves grace and patience during these difficult times.

Today I hope you are inspired to help your coworkers, neighbors or strangers as Dr. King would because your efforts will not go unnoticed. It all starts with one gesture.

You matter and your service and kindness is much needed at Cook Children’s and in this world.

Partners from health care and other fields are teaming up in an expanded collaboration geared to brainstorm and implement strategies to prevent suicides in North Texas.

Participants represent a variety of vantage points including mental health, housing, poverty alleviation, youth services and education. Yet they share the same concerns about the escalating rates of anxiety and depression that can lead to suicide. The Center for Children’s Health, led by Cook Children’s, summoned the partners together earlier this year through the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Task Force.

“It just works better from a community perspective if it’s really a community-driven need and a community-driven response, than if it’s just one organization pushing it out. We need everybody’s support in tackling this issue,” said Lenee Bassham, who oversees the ACEs Task Force in her role as director of child safety.

The Task Force has existed since 2017, working to mitigate the effects of trauma on children who live with domestic violence, neglect/abuse, a parent’s incarceration or other chronic adversity. The Center for Children’s Health last May bumped up the Task Force membership to about 25 people in an effort to address the implications of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In meetings over the spring and summer, the participants shared their observations, concerns and vision for improving access to mental health services in Tarrant County. Organizers hope that the dialogue will eventually lead to agreement on top priorities and a plan for action.

One theme that already has emerged? The need for a clear and consistent message that could be promoted by schools, medical providers, agencies or anyone who works with families. Bassham cited the Cook Children's Aim for Safety® initiative as an example of cohesive communication. Aim for Safety® simplifies the need-to-know message into three steps to prevent accidental gun injuries: “Safe storage. Safe children. Safe play.”

A similarly cohesive message when it comes to suicide, she said, could equip parents to know the warning signs and to find help for kids and teens who struggle with mental health. And the appeal broadens when multiple voices weigh in to shape the message’s content.

“When we have everyone’s buy-in, it’s much better to push messaging out in the community,” Bassham said. “We could take years on a messaging campaign, but we don’t want that to happen. We want to move as quickly as possible.”

The urgency stems from a dramatic rise in suicide attempts, which experts link to emotional distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cook Children’s, for instance, saw 261 patients hospitalized due to injuries following suicide attempts from January-July 2021. That compares to 143 hospitalizations for injuries in the aftermath of suicide attempts from January-July 2020.

In response, Cook Children’s has launched the Joy Campaign, a series of news articles and materials that spotlight the efforts being made to turn the trend around. The Joy Campaign focuses on avenues of hope and resiliency.

Bassham said the ACEs Task Force members plan to meet again in September to continue the teamwork approach. Their discussions could eventually pave the way for proposals that raise suicide awareness and improve the outlook for families in the Fort Worth area.

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes community engagement as an essential and effective aspect of suicide prevention globally. WHO advises that the process should involve stakeholders from diverse backgrounds who know the community’s demographics. Diversity improves the input by enlarging the group’s base of skills and creative thinking.

“Prevention of suicide cannot be accomplished by one person, organization or institution alone; it requires support from the whole community,” according to a WHO publication in 2018. “Each community can adapt and design its own plan, tools and activities to ensure that these best fit the community and are acceptable and appropriate to the local context.”

Bassham said it’s too soon to predict just yet what concrete action might arise from the ACEs Task Force talks. Each partner brings a unique viewpoint to the conversation. Let’s hear from three of the members.

Lachelle Goodrich, licensed professional counselor

Lachelle Goodrich suggested that the Task Force develop a process map that breaks down the path to treatment for suicidal kids in North Texas. She envisions a chart that directs parents when to act and places to turn, depending on the child’s age.

“Sometimes parents just don’t know the questions to ask or the signs to look for,” said Goodrich, who also serves as director of the Stop Six Choice Neighborhood Initiative for Fort Worth Housing Solutions. “Parents are stuck because we don’t know where to begin, where to start. ‘Do I call a therapist? Do I go to the hospital? What do I do?’”

She urges parents to have courageous and regular conversations about mental health. Be your child’s biggest advocate, and don’t be afraid to reach out for intervention, she said.

“The more I work with teens, the more they educate me. I feel like it’s my duty to turn around and educate the parents and the community.”

Ottis Goodwin, Fort Worth Independent School District

When an assessment finds that a student is considered at-risk for suicide, the Fort Worth Independent School District provides a list of area options for treatment. But that list doesn’t indicate which facilities have current openings for new patients, said Ottis Goodwin, director of Family & Community Resources for FWISD.

“When we give families that information, we have no idea who’s full and who’s not full,” Goodwin said. “The family may show up and not be able to be admitted.” He would like to see a system that tracks up-to-date bed availability.

Another suggestion from Goodwin: Closer ties between the district and the inpatient facilities, to ease students’ transition back to campus after hospitalization.

“Oftentimes we don’t know that they’re coming back into school, so we don’t really have a good support plan for their return, because it wasn’t communicated to us,” he said.