February 06, 2014

Whether the old adage is true that an angel gets its wings when a bell rings, every time patients in the Good Samaritan Rehabilitation Unit ring a bell, in a way, they get a pair of wings.

A physical therapist at the hospital, Matthew Hull instituted a tradition for patients who are ready for discharge. They get to ring a bell, signifying that their hard work has paid off, and they’re ready to spread their wings and begin their next stage of recovery at home.

“This simple act has had such a positive impact on not only the patients leaving, but the other patients who are still recovering and working hard to be discharged,” said Kathy Harrison, Rehabilitation Supervisor.

One patient on his way out was encouraged by others to give a speech when he rang the bell, she said.

“‘Another angel gets its wings.’ This is what I think of every time I hear the bell ring,” Kathy said. “Then, I smile knowing that we’ve helped another person regain enough independence that they’re leaving our facility better than when they arrived.”

Thank you, Matthew, for bringing to life our mission of improving the health status of the people we serve. 

• Read more about Mission Moments and how to submit ideas. Check regularly for Mission Moment segments in the People section of LinkNet.