Cedar County Memorial Hospital (CCMH) celebrated National Hospital Week, May 7-13, with a variety of activities. The theme of National Hospital Week 2017 was, “The Healing Heart of Healthcare”.

Throughout the week CCMH staff members showed their co-workers how much they appreciated them by giving them “I appreciate you” cards. At the end of the week each employee that received a card was entered into a prize drawing for a free night at Tan-Tar-A Resort. Jeana Murphy, Rural Health Clinic biller, was the lucky winner.

On May 8 at noon, area residents and CCMH employees were invited to attend a lunch and learn presentation about keeping your children safe and healthy through the summer. Barbara Chilton, D.O., Pediatrician, spoke about many summer dangers such as sunburns, insect bites and water hazards. Dr. Chilton shared her suggested contents for a first aid kit. Thanks to all who attended. Later in the afternoon staff members enjoyed a cool treat of ice cream sundaes served by administrative staff members.

On May 9, CCMH offered free lab screenings to all CCMH staff members in the hospital classroom from 7:30-9 a.m. Staff members were treated to healthy snacks after having their blood drawn. In appreciation of their hard work, all staff members received CCMH t-shirts.

May 10 was “Staff and Patient Appreciation Day”. The CCMH Auxiliary showed its appreciation to CCMH staff members by providing snacks throughout the day, which were greatly appreciated! CCMH Administration and employees presented the Auxiliary with a giant “thank you poster” signed by CCMH staff. Staff members were encouraged to make a special point of thanking the patients they encountered, letting them know how much they are appreciated for choosing CCMH for their health care needs. Pens were distributed at the registration desks of all CCMH facilities; and small rose bushes in ornate mugs were delivered to inpatients by CEO, Jana Witt.

On May 11, employees participated in our annual “A Gift from the Heart Food Drive”. Non-perishable food items were collected at the hospital, Medical Mall and Stockton Health Complex. Three large boxes of food were taken to the El Dorado Springs Church of Christ food pantry and the 1st Christian Church food pantry. The Stockton facility donated a large box of food items to the Stockton food pantry. After the food drive, popcorn was served in the hospital classroom; and short videos were shown at designated times for an afternoon laugh.

May 12 was “I Love CCMH” day. Staff members were invited to participate in a free jean day and wear a CCMH shirt to work. Lunch was served in the classroom. CEO, Jana Witt, grilled hotdogs and brats; and the Dietary Department prepared baked beans. CCMH employees provided sides and desserts. Food was left for the night shift and sent to the CCMH employees in Stockton.

All CCMH staff members were entered in daily prize drawings held throughout the week. Prizes included gift certificates for area restaurants and tickets to Branson attractions.

Cedar County Memorial Hospital appreciates each and every member of its staff and the support of the community—not just during National Hospital Week but all year long.