Exceptional Experiences at Community Health Network

Cindy Cross does her volunteer work behind the scenes, but her efforts touch patients and visitors at Community South and Community North every day. Her decorative pillows are distributed to hospital guests in need of some cheering.

“Just this week, a little boy in the gallery was upset about a test his mother was going to have. I grabbed a monkey, as well as a Colts-themed pillow, to allow him to choose one,” says Karen Hicks, concierge and volunteer services supervisor at Community North. “He ultimately chose the monkey, and several hours later, I passed them in the hallway to see that he was still clutching the monkey with a big smile on his face. His mother thanked me and said what a difference it had made.”

Cross learned about the opportunity to share her sewing talents from her daughter, who volunteers in the Community North ED. “I have always done volunteer work,” says Cross. “This project allows me to be creative, which is fun for me. It also feels good to do something for other people.”

Cross makes approximately 150 pillows each month, enough for distribution at Community North with plenty left over to share at Community South. Her pillows are varied, including animals, smiley faces and Colts patterns. This month, she’s adding some Halloween-themed designs.

“Whether it is a frightened child or an adult who is recovering from surgery, the pillows Cindy creates are resulting in smiles on the faces of patients and families all over the hospital,” says Hicks.

To learn more about volunteer services at Community Health Network, visit eCommunity.com/volunteer