Give to Make a Difference

In December 2018, Lauren was in an auto accident herself, coming out of surgery in January 2019 and back to work in May. In July, her husband, Justin, fell off a ladder in their backyard and broke both of his legs, feet and ankles! In the midst of these accidents, Lauren and Justin were raising three children under the age of six and building a new home. Justin had been unable to work and Lauren was feeling financially stretched being unable to collect PTO due to her own recovery time, being there for Justin while he had multiple surgeries and raising a family.

Human Resources told her about Employee Assistance made possible by the Physician & Employee Giving Program through Lafayette General Foundation and she applied. Lauren had been a contributor to the program, but was unsure if she would receive help. Shortly after applying, the Foundation contacted Lauren to let her know help was on its way. When asked how she felt, Lauren stated, “I cried. It assisted with bills, food and other necessities. I had anxiety about no extra income. The generosity of other people is great. This is an awesome program.”

Lauren and Justin are also very thankful for the excellent care Lafayette General Health provided to them. In addition to receiving Employee Assistance, Lauren had accidental injury insurance through the health system that helped them. Lauren is also grateful to her manager for being understanding and Dr. James Hlavacek, NP Dorothy Perry and the trauma team for their excellent care. Lauren explained that Justin is now friends with all of the nurses on his floor. Fortunately, life for Lauren and her family is now easier.

December 5, 2019 was Justin’s first day back to work and the new house is almost built. When the house is complete, Justin and Lauren plan on having a crawfish boil and inviting the trauma team as well as the nurses that took care of Justin. To anyone considering donating, Lauren advises, “Anyone I hear questioning whether or not they should give, I tell them about my experience. I encourage everyone to sign up, even just giving a dollar…You never know what life will bring you.”
 

The Physician & Employee Giving Fund is just one benefit for employees when having a career through Lafayette General Health. If you're interested in learning more about the foundation, click here.

If you're interested in a career through our health system, visit our careers page.