Name: Lannie
Where Did You Spread or Receive a Heart (city, state)?: Indianapolis, Indiana
Tell Us about the Person You Spread a Heart to and/or Received a Heart from.: My husband John underwent open heart surgery at St. Vincent's Heart Hospital in Indianapolis last week, and within the first day of his hospital stay, I experienced the love and care of so many doctors, nurses, caregivers, plus family and dear friends. I was moved to show my gratitude and appreciation in a concrete way. I was also touched by John's brave and sweet attitude--always showing interest in others and gratitude for their care--even when he was in pain or probably scared. I secured the hearts from my friend and began giving them out.
How Did Spreading or Receiving a Heart Impact You?: The hearts were a perfect "thank you" to those taking care of John's heart! From the surgeon, to the nurses, to the patient care technicians, to the housekeepers, we showed our gratitude openly and often. I have to say, John led the way in these relationships with his fantastic attitude, and I would also say, we had some of the biggest laughs we've ever had in our lives there in the intensive care unit with those blessed helpers. Nothing like helplessness to bring out our humanity! Those who received the hearts were surprised and pleased, some more openly than others. In turn, I am sure John was probably helped more because of his attitude and gratitude. Many of the workers put them in their plastic ID badges, keeping their pewter hearts close to their own heart. I like think the pewter heart will remind them of the deep importance of their work and of the lives they touch and save.