Wednesday, October 2, 2024
San Juan Regional Medical Center Volunteer Honored as Outstanding Auxilian of the Year
Left: SJRMC Volunteer and outgoing State Auxiliary President Debby Tillman, Center: Auxilian of the Year Ann Merrick, Right: SJRMC Volunteer Services Manager Teresa Becker
Ann Merrick’s long-term dedication to volunteering has been recognized at the state level. Merrick, a 20-year Spiritual Care Volunteer at San Juan Regional Medical Center, was selected as Outstanding Auxilian of the Year from nominations around the state by the New Mexico Hospital Association’s Auxiliary.
Merrick has spent thousands of hours volunteering, either on call for the Emergency Department, or coming into the Emergency Department at all hours to meet with patients and families and attend to their spiritual care needs. As a Spanish speaker, her skills have helped many patients facilitate conversations with their providers over the years.
“Ann has such passion for the care that occurs in the Emergency Department,” said Teresa Becker, Manager of Volunteer Services. “She loves to hear the information provided from the doctors and nurses, and help patients comprehend what was said. She excels at helping alleviate fears and providing support for the patients and their families.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while Merrick couldn’t come to the hospital to volunteer, she did everything she could to respond to any needs or requests. She rallied her fellow church members and acquaintances to gather donations for the hospital, which included care baskets for nurse managers. She also gathers supplies and donations for another passion of hers, the Bags of Love program, which provides bags with essentials for children of all ages who are removed from dangerous home settings. San Juan Regional Medical Center is a proud sponsor of the program. Merrick is also part of a newly developed Interfaith Council that brings different faith communities together for the common good.
“Ann’s energy and love of service is evident in this brief glimpse of her life. She always has a smile and words of encouragement for everyone she encounters. She is one of the most humble, loving and dedicated people you will ever meet,” said Stephanie Byrom, outgoing Auxiliary President.
San Juan Regional Medical Center is grateful for our team of passionate and dedicated volunteers who truly make our community hospital a better place. We congratulate Ann on her well-deserved recognition and thank her profoundly for her 20 years of service to our patients and our community.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities at San Juan Regional Medical Center, contact Teresa Becker at 505.609.6156 or tbecker@sjrmc.netor online at https://www.sanjuanregional.com/volunteer.