Making the Season Bright for Those in Need

An awareness of the increased number of area families struggling financially during the holidays made a lasting impression on Nancy Murphy, RN of Tower 5 and her colleagues throughout BWH ten years ago. At that time, they made a personal commitment to provide a happier holiday for at least one family each holiday season and to-date, more than 10 families have been touched by the kindness of Murphy and her co-workers.

From nurses to nursing assistants to pharmacists and other staff who visit Tower 5, Murphy gains many helpers to the cause. “My co-workers get behind this project each year with such enthusiasm,” said Murphy. “Within a week, we usually have a full list of gift givers.”
“Typically, I ask the mom or dad what they or the children need or want,” Murphy explained. Common gift requests have included warm winter coats, hats and mittens. The group also supplies gift cards for pharmacies, grocery and department stores. “We try to anticipate everything the family will need – from batteries for the children’s gifts to a holiday dinner,” she said.

Such commitment led Murphy to take on a bigger challenge this year – a military family with eight children whose father serves in Iraq. Murphy said that the group has never adopted such a large family, but is determined to obtain whatever the family needs. “As an example of the generosity of those involved, staff from Towers 6B and 4C decided to take two children each!” she beamed.

With their dedication to making a brighter holiday one family at a time, Murphy and her helpers truly demonstrate the BWH spirit of compassionate care and concern for the community.

To lend a hand, contact Nancy Murphy at ext. 2-7695.