When the Community Education Committee sent out a general request for donations of homemade teddy bears for our pediatric ED and FMC patients, Nancy Wilbern, a dietary worker, took it upon herself to make the bears. By the time she finished, she had created 31 bears. She drove 30+ miles in one direction to purchase fabric that was extra soft for the kids to hug (with her own money). She was concerned about the safety of the children, so she did some research and learned how to make the bears child-safe by sewing the eyes and nose instead of using buttons. These bears will be given to kids and babies who are not feeling good or newborns at their very first appointment.

 Nancy is a true example of a caring, thoughtful individual who gives of herself to others.

Nancy dedicated a significant amount of her personal time outside of work, and the associated financial costs, to craft these teddy bears. Her willingness to invest both time and money into her workplace, without any hesitation, exemplifies her commitment and generosity.

Whenever you encounter Nancy in the dietary department, she always has a smile on her face and greets everyone by their first name. Her positive demeanor contributes to enhancing the overall ambiance within the hospital's halls.

- Submitted by Casey McDonnough & Gloria Przygoda at Pinckneyville Community Hospital, Pinckneyville, IL