Small acts of kindness spread amid the pandemic

Acts of kindness may be more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, beautiful hand-painted rocks and hand-sewn “scrub bags” were generously gifted to staff at St. Joseph’s Parkwood Institute by community members as a way to show support and appreciation for health care workers.  

Staff from St. Joseph’s Specialized Geriatric Services program and the newly established Sub-Acute Medicine Unit (SAMU) at Parkwood Institute, both located on the fifth-floor, were among the recipients of the gifts. The SAMU Unit is currently where COVID-positive patients are receiving care. 

The hand-painted rocks were created by local graphic artist Bonnie Hoffarth. Messages on the rocks read “courage,” "heart of gold," and "brave." The designer also created thank you notes and says that the rocks are meant to act as keep sakes for staff during this difficult time. 

Similarly, colourful handmade bags were provided to staff by former geriatric rehabilitation patient Ralph Heller and his family. The reusable bags, which are called ‘scrub bags’ by the family, act as a more efficient way for staff to transport and clean their scrubs at the end of the day – as everything can easily be thrown into the wash.  

Ralph’s daughter, who owns a quilt shop, made the bags with help from family members after Ralph expressed his wishes to show support for those who helped him while in hospital.

“It’s a wonderful boost for our staff,” says Erin Watson, Coordinator of St. Joseph’s Specialized Geriatric Services Program.  “These acts of kindness really do make a difference.”