Dedication Beyond the Holidays: STHS Staff in Edinburg Work Through Thanksgiving
While many families across the Rio Grande Valley gathered around dining tables laden with turkey and all the fixings, the dedicated staff at the South Texas Health System (STHS) in Edinburg were immersed in their usual routine of patient care—a routine that neither slows nor halts for holidays.
Commitment to Care Over Celebration
For Registered Nurse A.J. Farias, working through Thanksgiving has become a familiar tradition. Farias, along with many colleagues at STHS Edinburg, has spent nearly two decades prioritizing patient care over personal holiday celebrations. “There’s people out here that we care about,” Farias shared during a brief pause in his shift. “There’s a reason why we’re here.”
The scenario inside the hospital on Thanksgiving diverges significantly from traditional festivities. “I’ve been working nearly every Thanksgiving for the last 16 to 18 years,” Farias commented. Despite the sacrifices, he remains devoted to his patients, understanding the critical nature of his role, especially during emergencies.
A Day Like No Other
Thanksgiving at STHS begins somewhat quietly. “We start off a little slow. As the day progresses, people start having dinners, having lunch, and it gets a little bit worse towards the end of the evening,” Farias explained, alluding to the increase in patient visits that often accompany holiday gatherings.
This commitment is acknowledged by patients and their families, who benefit from the relentless dedication shown by nursing staff. Carol Peugh, a patient at STHS, expressed her gratitude, “They’re wonderful, they really are. It’s a good staff. We need them, and I give them so much credit.”
A Gesture of Gratitude
In recognition of their tireless service, STHS administrators arranged a special Thanksgiving meal for hospital staff, providing a semblance of holiday cheer within the hospital’s corridors. “We were very fortunate. Our hospital and our administrators always take time out of their family time to bring us lunch and dinner,” Farias noted, highlighting the administration’s support for its employees.
Local Impact and Appreciation
The commitment of healthcare workers like Farias underscores a broader theme of selflessness and dedication prevalent in the Rio Grande Valley. Their willingness to work through significant holidays speaks volumes about the community-oriented spirit that characterizes South Texas. By ensuring the well-being of patients even during holidays, these healthcare professionals, like many others in RGV, contribute to a culture of compassion and community service.
Moreover, the staff’s dedication echoes across the Valley’s broader network of health services, providing a critical support structure to the community, particularly during the potentially high medical demands that occur with holiday activities.
Broader Implications for the Community
The unwavering dedication of the STHS staff, particularly during significant times of familial togetherness, not only reinforces the essential role of healthcare professionals in the community but also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices inherent in public service roles. As healthcare continues to evolve with new challenges and changing demographics in regions like South Texas, the community’s reliance on institutions like STHS is expected to grow.
For many Valley residents, having access to dependable healthcare professionals during holidays provides an invaluable sense of security. It ensures that, despite the disruptions that life can bring, care and compassion remain steadfast constants.
Resources for Valley Residents
For those in the Rio Grande Valley seeking more information on healthcare services during holiday periods, or interested in recognizing the contributions of healthcare workers, local resources are readily available. STHS encourages community members to engage through various channels, offering opportunities to support and connect with those who continue to prioritize patient care year-round.
As the holiday season unfolds, STHS Edinburg and its staff exemplify the essence of dedication, providing critical services with unwavering commitment—a testament to the heart of the Valley’s community spirit.
