GLENNON AMBASSADORS
Glennon Ambassadors
G
lennon Ambassadors are parents or patients who help us share our mission and grow the circle of support for the hospital. As an extension of their clinical relationship, many of our patient families find value and purpose in saying “yes” to opportunities that can support the hospital, our staff and patient families. Grateful Patient Coordinator Laura Wulf says, “Parents are an incredible asset to us. They are our best storytellers because they live,
eat and breathe our hospital culture every day. Their stories showcase our strengths and opportunities as an organization.” Wulf, a former Cardinal Glennon oncology nurse and Glennon mom herself, considers it a privilege to give families extra “purpose” to their journey. “All of our parents and families have unique situations of time, talent and geography. Some spent a short, yet impactful amount of time here, and some have spent a lifetime here. It’s fun to explore their
inspirations for staying connected and figure out opportunities with them from there. There’s always a way to connect the dots - story sharing, serving on a hospital committee, writing thank you notes, speaking opportunities, volunteering - any number of things,” says Wulf. “It is a gift that our families have willingness to share of themselves. It is the best way we can effectively show what exceptional care looks like and the impact of support.”
Meet some Glennon Ambassadors who are making a difference: Lauren and Tim Simon In 2018, Lauren Simon was pregnant with her second daughter, Emily. Big sister, Natalie, was 1 year old. Emily was diagnosed in utero at 24 weeks with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, meaning the left side of Emily’s heart did not form. Lauren and Tim were referred to the St. Louis Fetal Care Institute Emily, Lauren, Tim and Natalie Simon
54 • SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation
at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon. At 27 weeks gestation, Lauren and Tim met the doctors and nurses who would be supporting them through their journey. Once Emily was born, her heart would not be strong enough to support life. “It was a scary time, a lot to take in,” says Lauren. “They took care of us as much as they took care of Emily.” Doctors at
