The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be stressful, especially when you or a loved one spend Christmas in the hospital.
In 2002, Ashley Willis not only spent Christmas in the Intensive Care Unit of Lake Pointe Medical Center in Rowlett, but it was also her 16th birthday.
Every year since, Ashley has returned to Lake Pointe to decorate the waiting room with a Christmas tree, to help patients feel a little more at home for the holidays.
Next to the tree, she leaves a photo of her grandfather – who also spent time in the ICU over the holidays. In a second, larger photo frame, she leaves a special message of a hope – a personal testimony addressed to families who find themselves facing the new year with a loved one in critical care. 
The framed testimony reads:
Hi, my name is Ashley Willis. In 2002 I spent 2 weeks in the ICU during the Christmas holiday and even celebrated my 16th birthday here at Lake Pointe Hospital. My birthday is on Christmas day.The year before, my Grandfather was in ICU for 3 weeks during the holiday season.
I would like to share with you this Christmas tree to brighten up the time you spend in this ICU area. I hope it will bring your family Joy…Hope…And Peace…During this holiday season!
With Love,
Ashley Willis
“This gesture by a former patient demonstrates how healthcare employees can touch families’ lives and have an impact on how that care is paid forward,” said Bobby Montgomery, Director of Marketing and Sleep Medicine at Lake Pointe. “Lake Pointe Medical Center thanks Ashley for her loving thoughts, and for thinking of others this and every holiday season since 2002! It brings many families hope for the New Year.”
Lake Pointe Medical Center wishes everyone happiness and health in 2012.
Information provided by Bobby Montgomery, Lake Pointe Health Network; written by BlueRibbonNews.com.
To submit your stories, news and events, email editor@BlueRibbonNews.com.
Patient returns to Lake Pointe with message of hope added by Editor on
View all posts by Editor →