People helping people — and we want to share their stories
Our community is full of people helping others. We’re happy to tell their stories and #ThankASouthSounder for being awesome.
We continue to honor the amazing people who make our community better. We’ve told you about a few previously on our social media. Here are more stories we are sharing:
Nikki Heffernan, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
Remember when getting a COVID-19 vaccination appointment felt like scoring World Series tickets? That’s when Nikki Heffernan and the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Patient Access team tripled their efforts to schedule as many patients as possible.
Nikki arrived at the office a couple of hours early to retrieve hundreds of messages from the vaccine hotline. The whole team worked overtime every weekend to keep the hotline open and manage the meticulous schedule at seven vaccination sites.
“The excitement and relief patients feel when they’re finally able to secure that appointment is palpable over the phone,” Nikki said.
Sometimes patients call to express their gratitude — a simple gesture leaves a lasting positive impact on the team.
We thank you, too, Nikki. Your work behind the scenes makes our community better!
Jenn Bayne, Pulse Heart Institute
Jenn Bayne loves her job as a social worker at the MultiCare Health Pulse Advanced Heart Failure Clinic. When her patients are exhausted and struggling with care and finances, Jenn connects them with necessary resources.
She’s also quick to gush about her “loving, talented and wise” colleagues who all go the extra mile for patients. Need proof? In 2020, the team saw 1,000 more patients than the year before — and still had 220 fewer hospital readmissions.
Hundreds of people are able to take care of their hearts because Jenn took care of them. Thank you, Jenn!
Karen and Pam, transportation drivers with Pierce Transit
From day 1 of the pandemic, bus drivers have been getting people to essential destinations — essential jobs, grocery stores, medical appointments and more. Pierce Transit drivers Karen and Pam put on a smile every time they take the wheel.
Customers, peers and supervisors applaud Pam’s professional and reliable service. She has been with Pierce Transit for more than 22 years and takes honor and pride in safely commuting passengers.
Since joining Pierce Transit in 2013, Karen has been known for stepping up to help where needed. She’s proud of the team that connects our community, one bus ride at a time.
Both Karen and Pam were recognized as Transit Operators of the Month in 2020. We honk our horns in their honor today! Thank you for your dedicated service.
Know a community member or organization doing good deeds? We want to help you honor them.
It could be from:
⭐ Clever new projects.
⭐ Supporting a community need.
⭐ Nothing is too small or too big.
Tell us their story using #ThankASouthSounder on social media or message us here.
And you can also send them a virtual high five! It’s quick to do and will brighten someone’s day!
