During a hospitalization or treatment for a serious or chronic illness, patients often form special bonds with a particular employee or two. One of the ways patients can express their gratitude is through charitable giving, which led to the founding of the Guardian Angel giving program at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers San Pedro and Torrance.
"I had planned my life to center upon helping others in need. I never thought I would be the one who needed the help. With that said, I am truly grateful to have Julia Mathews helping me with my physical therapy. With her I have been able to make continued progress. The pedigrees of the physical therapy team and the occupational therapy team are excellent! Excellence should be rewarded!”
—Guardian Angel donor Paul Nussbaum
“The Guardian Angel program gives patients and their families an opportunity to recognize extraordinary kindness or excellence that touches their lives during a hospital stay or visit,” says Rosanna Tullio, Donor Engagement Officer at Providence St. Joseph Health Foundations, Southern California Region.
Throughout the year, employees who have been recognized by donors as Guardian Angels are honored during a special presentation. They receive angel pins, which they wear on their hospital badges. “It lets the employee know the kind of impact they had on the patient’s life,” she says.
"Receiving Paul’s recognition made me feel special, appreciated and proud to be a part of Providence Little Company of Mary. My patients and my team of amazing colleagues make coming to work a privilege every day.”
—Guardian Angel honoree Julia Mathews,
Physical Therapist at Providence Little Company of Mary San Pedro
“It’s also an opportunity to support a cause that is very worthy,” Tullio says. “The donors become Guardian Angels, too, by making a charitable donation to the Providence medical center of their choice. They are helping further the mission by making sure the kind of compassionate care they received is available to everyone in the community for many decades to come. Providence is a not-for-profit organization, and this philanthropic support helps us purchase equipment, build new facilities and serve the community in myriad ways. They are partners with us in this effort.”
Honoring Caregivers
You can say thank you to your Guardian Angel online or by phone at Providence.org/donate/little-company-of-mary-foundation/ways-to-give or 310-303-5340.
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