In the community

“Wesley had a habit of saying to each of us, ‘Don’t tell anyone, but you’re my favorite.’ With all our nurse managers and child life therapists, he had about 50 favorites. That’s why we put up a sign when he left that said, ‘No matter where you are, you will ALWAYS be our FAVORITE.’ “

In October 2020, Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in the Midlands lost a gem when long-time volunteer Wesley Gaskins died of COVID-19 complications. Gaskins, a two-time childhood cancer survivor, found purpose in giving back. For seven years, his infectious smile brought joy to Children’s Hospital. Whether greeting families at the front door and helping them find their way or diligently working to help the Child Life team, he always made everyone feel valued.

“Wes was the heartbeat of our Children’s Hospital,” said Christy Fink, Manager of Child Life and Special Programs. “His drive to be here day in and day out was inspiring. He never met a stranger, and he always left you feeling better than he found you. Wes’ pure heart and authentic nature were evident in all that he touched. We are all better people for having known and loved Wes.” His badge may have said “volunteer,” but Gaskins took his work at Children’s Hospital seriously. Overcoming his own healthcare battles and the challenge of finding transportation from Kershaw County to Children’s Hospital three to five days each week, he persevered and never wanted to let his Children’s Hospital family down. When asked in 2018 how he would want to spend free time, the answer came quickly, “Right here at Children’s Hospital.”

Mother Wendy was there every step of the way, acknowledging the important role that her son’s dedication to Children’s Hospital played in his well-being. Prioritizing his schedule around her own work hours, she made sure he could spend as much time as possible at the hospital before the pandemic curtailed volunteer participation.

This special volunteer became a staple at the facility, weaving his way into the hearts of team members through acts of kindness and eagerness to help. In his quiet, humble way, he became indispensable to the team. When the devastating news of his passing reached Children’s Hospital, no one was left unaffected by the loss.

Team members rallied to channel their grief by reaching out to the Gaskins family to offer support. The outpouring of love was so great that the Children’s Hospital family collected enough money to provide meals and aid with funeral expenses. Noting that Wesley Gaskins was irreplaceable and unforgettable, attending Scott Carney, MD, suggested naming our front “boat” desk The USS Wesley. In this way, Gaskin’s legacy will always be a part of Children’s Hospital.