The Guardian Angel program gives patients and families the opportunity to make a donation in appreciation of a physician, team member, volunteer or department that made a difference in their healthcare experience. A recognition ceremony is held for every Guardian Angel gift – giving special honor to those who go above and beyond. With the help of St. Luke’s Foundation, these gifts help fund programs and equipment that add to the quality of care at UnityPoint Health – Cedar Rapids.
A grateful patient wanted to do something special to recognize the Community Cancer Center’s exceptional care, so a Guardian Angel donation was made, and message provided.
Guardian Angels:
- Matt Schmitz, Integrative Wellness Program Manager
- Lisa Hanigan, Yoga Instructor
- Sherri Plough, Yoga Instructor
- Gerry Hopkins, Tai Chi Instructor
Message from the couple:
“I don’t know how long these programs have been in place, but I have enjoyed coming here for yoga and Tai Chi since 2018.
Matt always has a smile and time to listen to what programs we would like to see at the Community Cancer Center. He added game time on Thursdays and for some of us…it’s a winning program. And he takes time listen to me and talk about the Quilt of Valor program.
I never practiced yoga before coming here. When Lisa told me that Wednesdays were a little more intense, I thought I’ll be back on Wednesday… if nothing else, I’ll die trying.
Sherri has expanded chair yoga to incorporate mat yoga poses and restorative yoga.
I have never practiced Tai Chi and didn’t know much about it. Gerry takes time to explain the different moves and answer our questions about Tai Chi. When he or Susan cannot be here for class, we organize our own “chaos Tai Chi” class.
I sincerely want to thank each of you for helping me to improve myself…body through yoga and Tai Chi, plus mind and soul through meditation. I know that these classes really helped me recover as fast as I did from my hospitalization.
Each of you have been a Guardian Angel to me. As I tell people, the hardest part is walking through the door the first time. I am glad that I walked through the doors of the Nassif Community Cancer Center.”
