100 Moments

10:10 10.10: Anatomy of a Moment

S Building
Cleveland Clinic main campus

Cleveland
10:10 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time

Jeannie Parrish, a supervisor of Patient Support Services, is unpacking a shipment of clothing. “People know about the medical things happening here,” she says. “But they don’t know about everything else that happens in the background.” 

Let’s start to rectify that, shall we? Step inside. In this tidy, out-of-the-way storage room, metal shelves are lined with plastic bins. They contain new T-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, sweatpants and undergarments, organized by sizes. Other bins hold drawstring bags, fleece blankets and personal hygiene kits. On the opposite wall, new pairs of mesh clogs hang at the ready.

Welcome to the compassionate heart of the Discharge with Dignity program. It ensures that no patient in need leaves the hospital without proper clothing and basic necessities. The program was created with a Catalyst Grant, funded by philanthropic donations that are pooled to support innovative caregiver ideas. 

When an email arrives with a patient’s needs, the appropriate items are pulled from the shelves. Moments later, a care package is ready for delivery. One order of dignity. To go, please. 

“We’re here to help people,” Jeannie says. “That means a lot.” 

Photograph by Tim Logan