Don Uses His Past to Bond with Veteran Patients

Don Williams knows firsthand how important it is to visit with veterans in the hospital. As the project coordinator for veterans at Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center, Don spends time with many veterans during their hospital stay: talking, listening and sharing stories of their time during service.

“Those are my sisters and brothers,” Don states. “It is important that fellow veterans can have time to bond with each other – even if it is in the hospital. Only we know what each other went through.”

Don served in the United States Navy and dedicated many years to helping veterans after returning home from service.

“It means a lot to be able to now work for St. Rita’s Medical Center. They understand the need for veterans to be able to speak with those who also served during their time of need,” Don says.  

Many veteran patients can relate to Don once they learn of his past service. His presence helps these patients take their minds off their current medical issue by reminiscing on their past service to the United States.  

With Veterans Day approaching, Don encourages everyone to thank the veterans in their community.

“Freedom is not free. Freedom is given to the United States by those who wear the uniform,” he states.  

Recalling his time in the service, Don reflects on the many emotions that comes with being a veteran.

“There is joy, sadness and fear, but overall, there is a sense of pride shared between all that have served.”

The bond that is shared between the veteran patients and Don allows connections and trust to truly form during their hospital visits.  
Thank you to Don as well as all of our other veteran team members for your service to our country. Read more stories about our veteran team members.

Also, learn more about the health care services we offer at Mercy Health.