As part of Generosity Champions kickoff week, we spoke to Barbara Turner. She works in Imaging at our AdventHealth Waterman campus and has been there for 26 years. “I look at my employment at AdventHealth as far more than just a job. This is my work family; so many sweet friends I’ve made over the years that have invested in me both personally and professionally. There’s no other place I’d rather be. I’ve grown so much over the years. It's a huge part of my life.”
Barbara said the best part of her job is the people. “I love the one-on-one with our patients. I love getting to know them. I love hearing their stories. Yes, we are here to treat sickness and disease, but people are often in need of so much more. I read a quote once that said, “Be a good listener. It makes the person who’s speaking to you feel loved, cared for and worthy of being heard”. What better way of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ than to genuinely listen and love people right where they are.
AdventHealth gives team members the opportunity to give back to causes they believe in through the Generosity Champions program and Barbara is our Waterman campus’ Generosity Champion ambassador. “I’m a Generosity Champion ambassador for two reasons: first, because it’s my chance to say thank you. Thank you to my AdventHealth family for investing in me in so many ways over the years – by allowing me to grow professionally (utilizing scholarships funds to graduate debt-free), by providing me with opportunities to share my love of Christ in actionable ways (5 years of life-changing international missions trips), and by investing in a community hospital that not only provides state-of-the-art technology but sets a standard and delivers care that is second to none.
Reason number two, we all need help sometimes. In Galatians 6:2 we are reminded that we are to carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Another verse I am reminded of is Hebrews 13:16 Don’t forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to him. I believe God calls us to take care of one another. Sacrifice and generosity are one of the greatest ways we can express love. I’ve been on both ends of that story at different times in my life, and each side has brought me immeasurable joy.
This past year has now given me a reason number three. It’s been another difficult year for many, especially outside of our organization. Many have lost jobs, had to find new career paths, and have genuinely struggled to make ends meet. I am once again reminded of how blessed I am to work for AdventHealth. We have proven we are resilient, we are strong, and we will continue to overcome…but only together. We must continue to support one another and our community as we have done so many times before.
This is why I am a Generosity Champion and it’s my hope that I can inspire others to get involved too.
If you’d like to learn more about becoming a Generosity Champion and giving back to AdventHealth, please visit GenerosityChampions.com.
