Direct Line From Max Buetow For 12/16/22

Dec. 16, 2022

Sick days remind us of the importance of gratitude

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department recently noted that we are currently in the worst influenza season in nearly 20 years. This week, I found out exactly what they mean!

I have been home with the flu for the past few days and can confirm that this is the sickest I have felt in probably 10 years. Seasonal illnesses can seem like a minor nuisance, but this week has definitely made me pause and appreciate the blessings of good health.

When you are not at your best, you realize – more than ever – how important the people are around you. I have relied on my family for so much help this week, and my wife has doted on me and taken care of my every need.

That vital connection with family reinforces the need for health systems to keep health care close to home. Whether patients are in the hospital or recovering after a hospital stay, family and loved ones play a key role in the healing process.

Early this week, before I got sick, another interaction already had me thinking about gratitude and good health. On Monday, I received an email from friend who works at another hospital here in Missouri. His cousin is hospitalized at Cox South and he asked if I would be willing to check in on her.

She is a married mom of two, handling all the demands of a busy family life. Additionally, she is currently dealing with a cancer diagnosis. Last weekend, she was preparing to travel to Kansas City for her oldest’s basketball tournament when complications landed her in the hospital.

As I visited with her, I was struck by her strength and warmth in light of such a difficult situation.

She told me that she knows that her diagnosis may not end well. While she spoke, she radiated appreciation for those around her – her family, friends, and caregivers.

I was standing there, looking at someone who understands that she may someday be leaving her family and her hopes behind. She is battling every day, and yet she still has a strong smile on her face and kind, heartfelt words to share.

It is humbling to interact with someone who has significant health concerns and who is working to make a positive impact on others in every conversation she is having.

I have another friend in a similar position, fighting a particularly tough cancer battle. Even in his situation, he continues to go out of his way to share his talents by making flower arrangements and holiday décor for friends and family. His love for others and the world around him shines through brightly every time you see him. I am blessed by every opportunity I get to talk with him.

The holidays are the time of year to reflect on the gifts that others give us each day, with their support, their caring, and their strength. We cherish those gifts and work to pay those blessings forward – making sure the ripple of inspiration that people create in us carries on to others.

In this season of celebration, I urge all of us to pause for a moment, reflect, and be grateful for the blessings of our health and for the presence of our loved ones around us.

Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals: Miracle Week

I recently had a chance to participate in my first CMN Hospitals Miracle Week fundraiser. Being on TV and answering phones is not necessarily in my comfort zone, so it was an intimidating scene to walk into. My fear must have shown because they put me in a group with the pros. And, as is usually the case, when you are surrounded by great people, you can’t help but be successful.

I had a blast alongside my phone bank team: Realtor Lina Robertson (the star power), Police Chief Paul Williams (the horsepower); and SBU President Dr. Rick Melson (the best dressed guy on TV that day). In this group, I was the strong “B player” – every team needs one of those! It was a winning combination as our team received the most calls during our time on set.

I appreciated the generosity of every donor, but I was most touched by the callers who made $10 donations. Some apologized that they couldn’t give more, but their contributions were the most meaningful to me.

I couldn’t help but be reminded of the Biblical story of the widow who cast two mites (which make up a farthing) into the treasury. Her contribution might look small, but she had cast in more of her worth than those who had plenty. Similarly, I know the callers contributing $10 weren’t giving out of abundance, but out of a personal connection to the CMN mission, which makes their contributions all the more special.

I am so grateful that when all was said and done, CMN reached a record-breaking Miracle Week with more than $215,000 raised! I am beyond grateful for the generosity of all who donated to the cause of helping local children with medical needs.

Holiday open house meals return

For the first time since 2019, we were able to bring back our holiday open house events with holiday treats for our teams! Over the last few weeks, we have had so much to celebrate – from five-star hospitals, to Magnet status, to Best Place to Work honors. We have been thrilled to get together again for fellowship and meals – however, all the celebrations may have us all on Weight Watchers by January!

Voice of the patient

Adapted from feedback at the Cox South Emergency Department: “All of the nurses who visited during my ER visit were very courteous, knowledgeable and kept me informed.”

Thank you for all you do,

Max