JUNE 2006 St. Luke’s Auxiliary’s President Russ Hinman St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital Auxiliary president Russ Hinman’s heart was the reason he came to St. Luke’s eight years ago, and it’s the reason he’s been here ever since. Russ was in need of a heart transplant when he arrived at the hospital as a patient, and he underwent a successful transplantation after waiting nearly two years on the donor list. His heart surgery may have been complete, but Russ’ love for St. Luke’s was just beginning. | |  |
After his operation, Russ joined the Heart Exchange, an organization that supports transplant patients, their families and friends. As a volunteer, he shared his experience with people who were in situations similar to what he had faced as a patient. “I just saw it as repaying the gift that I’ve been given,” Russ said. “You don’t know what it’s like to be on the other side unless you’ve been there, and I’ve been there.” This compassionate spirit led Russ to St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital Auxiliary, which he’s been involved with for seven years. Russ volunteers in the 6th floor Cath Lab, where he maintains patient logs and interacts with patients, their families and physicians. The recipient of numerous caths himself, Russ understands the process, allowing him to better relate to patients. “I’m able to help people who are nervous about their loved ones, because I know what they’re going through,” he said. “Sometimes, I don’t have to say anything. They just need someone to listen.” Russ began his role at St. Luke’s as Auxiliary president in June 2006. He has focused on reinforcing customer service during his term. His goal can be summed up by what he calls, “The Platinum Rule,” which states that you “do unto others as they would have you do unto them.” In other words, simply give the customers the service that they want. Russ credits his fellow Auxilians for making his experience in the organization so satisfying. “I’ve been at other hospitals, but they don’t have the camaraderie that we do at St. Luke’s,” he said. “We all get along so well, and that spills over into our work. It’s like a big family here.” - Brenna Rackham
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