It’s clear that our team changes lives each day, but it’s not always apparent how deeply we can influence a patient, especially when he or she is vulnerable.
I’d like to highlight the work being done in our amazing Victim Services Program that is a part of the Social Work Department. The Victim Services Program is dedicated to serving victims of crime, including survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, physical assault, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, and incest. Social workers provide continuous support for patients during their path to recovery, including post-crime intervention, accompaniment in the ED, advocacy, referrals, and ongoing therapy. See a picture of the team below.
From left, front row: Merritt Stewart, LCSW, Victim Services Therapist; Heidi Ross, LCSW, Victim Services and Emergency Department Social Work Supervisor; from left, top row, Patrick Walsh, LMSW, College Campus Sexual Assault Coordinator; Chauntel Gerdes, LMSW, Outreach and Prevention Programs; Maya Genovesi, LMSW, Emergency Department and Victim Services Social Worker; Fran Silverman, ACSW, LCSW-R, Director, Department of Social Work And Home Care Services.
The work of this team and others not pictured is an important link between great immediate care and long-term recovery. Recently, a patient shared his or her experience working with Merritt Stewart, pictured above:
“I have been through a lot and I have survived a lot. Today, I just got my green card approval and that is the first step of my new life. I would have never survived my nightmare without you! You were my friend when I had no friends or family. You made me believe in myself and I did survive… My fight isn’t over, but I am stronger today thanks to you and the person you helped me become.”
Thank you all for the amazing support you provide our community.
Have a great weekend.
— Jeremy
PS—A great time was had by all at last Wednesday’s Ice Cream Social. Our infection rates have been the lowest in years, thanks to your amazing persistence.
