We’ve always known cardiac rehab professionals are creative and compassionate caregivers. So it came as no surprise that the entries we received for our Cardiac Rehab Week contest confirmed this commitment. Let us introduce you to this year’s winner – Emily Good of University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
BOOSTING CARDIAC REHAB MORALE
When asked about the impact Cardiac Rehab Week has on their patients and staff, Emily shared about the increase in motivation they experienced:
“Cardiac Rehab Week was an amazing chance for the patients and staff to come together and show support for the University of Michigan Health Systems and each other. It was an eye-opener for patients to remember what motivates them to come back each week, as well as inspire themselves and their fellow cardiac rehab and fitness center attendants. The morale of our patients is one of the most important things to us, and Cardiac Rehab Week allowed us to motivate and encourage patients to become even better than they already are.”
CELEBRATING CARDIAC REHAB
Emily and her team implemented interactive celebrations throughout the week. Here are a few of our favorite of their ideas:
Spirit Day Themes: Patients and providers were encouraged to dress up to match a different theme each day (ex: Mismatch, Beach, Ugly Sweater, 70’s). Those who dressed up were entered to win a prize.
Decorated Bulletin Boards: Patients had the opportunity to write their personal motivation on a heart and pin it on a designated bulletin board, giving inspiration to anyone who came to the fitness center.
“Souper Bowl” Dinner: A group of staff and patients made soup for a healthy cooking contest. A panel of registered dietitians voted for the healthiest soup. After the judging, everyone was invited to enjoy the soup together with a $5 meal donation. Money raised was given to the American Heart Association.
Great work, Emily! We love seeing teams like your’s dedicated to improving the lives of patients both during cardiac rehab week and throughout the year.