Award Type: Spirit of Service

When a 17-year-old patient was admitted to the PICU for blood clots in her legs and lungs, Dr. Lilitwat showed how, at UMC, Service is Our Passion. At the patient’s bedside, he carefully reviewed the sonograms with the patient and her family, acquainted them with her current condition, and provided details about the necessary treatment plan. Though the situation was difficult, Dr. Lilitwat’s fun personality, intelligence, and passion showed through in every interaction during the patient’s healthcare journey.

Dr. Baxter is an excellent resident and very personable with our pediatric patients and their families. He makes every effort to communicate clearly with the nursing staff, which is very much appreciated. Dr. Baxter rounds on his patients multiple times throughout the day, something patients’ families admire. Our Pediatrics team thanks him for his hard work and his willingness to go above and beyond to care for his patients.

Dr. Patel helped to implement a great discharge plan with the social work team, leading to an excellent result. She is a fantastic steward of UMC’s resources and is always pleasant and helpful. Dr. Patel makes the nurses’ job easier and is a delight to work with. No matter what gets thrown her way, she makes a plan and performs extraordinarily, even with the most medically challenging patients.

Diah was working on Saturday when she heard about an honor walk for a 15-year-old football player who suddenly collapsed on the field and passed away. Since the young man lived outside of Lubbock, Diah worried his fellow football players might not be present for the memorial. Diah contacted her son’s assistant football coach and her husband and drew support from various teams. Diah’s huge heart showed true UMC pride! Thank you, Diah, for supporting this family.

Vivian is a very knowledgeable nurse practitioner at the Cancer Center. She is an incredible provider with an impeccable work ethic. Vivian always comes to work ready to see patients, address challenges, and evaluate the big picture, not just the issue at hand.

Dr. Jacob noticed that the nurses and surgical techs in the operating room needed help during a busy two-service case and dove in to offer assistance. An extra set of hands was a tremendous load off of the nurse, helping to organize a challenging situation while providing exceptional care to our patients. Thank you to Dr. Jacob for his support and kindness.

Dr. Diab had a patient who could not purchase a Spica car seat for her daughter, and Social Services was also trying to locate one. Dr. Diab, out of the kindness of his heart, purchased a car seat for the patient without hesitation. The mother was very grateful for his generosity!

While finishing a shift in the East Tower, Sabrina heard a scream from the women’s restroom. To her surprise, Sabrina discovered a woman inside giving birth, prompting her to alert the UMC medical staff immediately. With the baby on its way, Sabrina calmed the birthing mother and protected the baby as it was delivered, resulting in the best possible outcome.

Dr. Adhikari went above and beyond the call of duty. He carefully explained how a recent patient’s treatment was going to work so they could clearly understand it. He even assisted the patient with other personal challenges, showing the difference our providers can make. We thank Dr. Adhikari for being so thorough in easing our patients’ hearts.

Dr. Klapproth regularly takes extra time at the bedside with his patients, talking to them during rounding. We commend Dr. Klapproth for helping to make patients feel valued and listened to. 5 East, especially, appreciates Dr. Klapproth for his time, patience, and the courtesy he shows staff and patients.

Susie went out of her way to gift balloons and a copy of Our Daily Bread to a struggling patient on his birthday. The patient responded appreciatively with a thank you card, letting her know that her gift and gentle affirmations inspired him to attend church and receive the devotional. Susie is a valuable and loved member of our UMC family.

Dr. Mecham resonates with calmness in any situation he faces and is appreciated so much by patients, families, and colleagues. He speaks to his patients caringly and compassionately during every visit. Dr. Mecham also takes special care of the nurses by communicating carefully and being mindful of their duties while upholding UMC’s high standards and being a passionate caregiver every day.