Blogs

Blog Blitz - Part 1 of 6

Feb 16, 2012 by Marc Strode, CEO
Folks,
Mark Twain once said, "Loyalty to your country always.  Loyalty to your government when it deserves it."  I was reminded of this quote over the weekend and what to paraphase it into a healthcare parallel:  "Loyalty to your patients always.  Loyalty to your hospital when it deserves it."  I have come to realize over the course of 14 years that loyalty from the team--you guys--is not a right.  It is earned. 

We continue to stay very focused on not only the patient experience, but the employee experience as well.  One of the biggest employee celebratory events took place a week ago today at the Ramada as we celebrated the VVRMC Service Awards with a whole bunch of our friends who over the course of the past 12 months surpassed significant milestones.  All together, 715 years of service to Val Verde County and Del Rio.  I stood there in front of the group humbled by that level of loyalty.  Congratulations to everyone who received an award and recognition.  Let me single out two special employees who celebrated exceptionally impressive anniversaries.  Rosa Rubio from the lab has been at VVRMC for 35 years.  Wayne got up there and gave a heartfelt speach about her, and we sure are appreciative for all her service.  Then, at 40 years was Juanita Gonzalez from the business office.  I told her afterward that when she started in September of 1971, I wasn't even an afterthought!  I am so impressed with the dedication and staying a part of something--both in good times and bad--for that long. 

It was a really nice evening, and equally cool to visiting with our team is getting to say "hi" to all the spouses and families who so willingly share their significant others with our family here at the shop.  They are clearly a part of our success, too.

Thanks also to Sheri Wheathersbee and her committee for pulling off such a nicely orchestrated event.  I heard it was the best yet...so we've set the bar high for 2013!

Keep the Spirit,
Marc