This program allows patients to recognize a Southcoast Health employee who has made a positive impact on their care or experience here at Southcoast Health.

Kari loves her job and is a strong advocate for each of her patients. She strives to ensure they feel confident and empowered to reach their therapy goals.

Michelle shared how meaningful Kari’s positivity and kindness are during her appointments at Southcoast Health Ear, Nose and Throat, where she receives speech and language therapy for aphasia – a loss of ability to understand or express speech caused by damage to the brain.

“Kari has helped me in so many ways. She’s gone above and beyond, even assisting me outside of my appointments and giving me additional resources to continue working to find my voice,” says Michelle. “I’m so grateful for her. She’s shown me so much compassion and care, and I’ve made so much progress working with her.”

Together, Michelle and Kari’s colleagues presented her with the award and a special pin to celebrate the recognition.

“I was so surprised when everyone showed up to award me. I was very moved. I try to treat people with kindness and be grateful for them,” said Kari. “This means so much to me.”

Since beginning her care with Kari, Michelle has returned to her Bible study classes, is working at reobtaining her driver’s license, and has even become a mentor for others at her aphasia support group. 

And, during a recent visit, Michelle shared a heartfelt message with Kari expressing how much her care has meant to her. She gave Kari a handwritten note that read, “I am a person of value.”

“Her message was so profound and has made such an impact on me. Many times, our patients’ struggles can make them feel ‘less than’,” says Kari. “I’ve got her message posted at my desk. It’s a great daily reminder that despite our struggles, we still matter.”

If you’d like to honor a Southcoast Health Employee with an impactful Thank You, please visit The Grateful Patient | Southcoast Health.

These donations help advance our mission to deliver clinical excellence and a uniquely caring experience to every life we touch.

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