July 29, 2024

Hurricanes and tropical storms are an unfortunate part of the reality of living in Houston. The 2024 hurricane season was predicted to be an active one, and we’ve seen that firsthand.

Researchers at Colorado State have updated their Atlantic Hurricane Season forecast to now include 25 named storms (up from 23) and 12 hurricanes (up from 11). Of the 12 hurricanes predicted, the forecast says six will be major. But as we all know, it only takes one to make a life-altering impact.

The Employee Financial Assistance Fund (EFAF), a confidential fund sustained by voluntary donations from team members, is here for Texas Children’s employees experiencing those life-altering impacts. We all know things can change in an instant. Your once secure financial future can be blown away with gale-force winds. This is where you can rely on the members of your One Amazing Team to support you through those unexpected, unforeseen and unavoidable emergencies.

One such person facing those unexpected hardships was Candace Taylor, a Patient Administrative Liaison. Her home was directly in the path of Hurricane Beryl, and she sustained damage to her roof, windows and vehicle. Tragically, after replacing her fence due to the derecho storm in May, she would need to do so once again. Candace was forced to manage all those circumstances with no power and four small children at home, one on a breathing machine for asthma and one requiring special milk. With limited funds available, she was unsure of a path forward.

Candace turned to Texas Children’s in her time of need, and it did not let her down. Her EAP representative was able to get her funds for groceries. “Within three to five minutes, she called me right back and said, ‘You were approved!’ TCH deposited the money today,” said Candace. “That’s a weight off my shoulders. It’s so much more than just a dollar amount.”

The EFAF is always accepting voluntary donations. If you are interested in donating either one time or on a recurring basis, you can do so through Voyager. Simply click “Show More” under the “Quick Actions” section on the lefthand side of the screen and scroll down to “Compensation.” Then go to “Manage Personal Contributions” and click “Add.” In the “Plan” drop down, select “Charitable Giving.” From there, you can select a one-time donation to the EFAF or set up a recurring option deducted from your paycheck. If you have questions about donating, please email eap@texaschildrens.org or call 832-824-3327.

The members of this team took care of Candace in her time of need, and it made all the difference. She is only one example of the care and peace of mind this fund provides. Thank you for donating to the EFAF and supporting your fellow team members.

Hurricanes are a universally anxiety-inducing experience. Unpredictable, unrelenting and unkind, they inflict damage on our homes, businesses and mental well-being. Hurricane Beryl however didn’t stand a chance at tarnishing the joy and laughter Camp For All 2U brought to The Woodlands campus as it barreled through Houston.

Camp For All is an organization committed to intentionally delivering unique, barrier-free camping experiences for children and adults managing challenging illnesses, disabilities or special needs. Camp For All 2U delivers that barrier-free camping experience straight to the doorstep of Texas Children’s, taking the inclusivity one step further and allowing our inpatient kids the opportunity to take part in the full camp program.

This year’s Camp For All 2U event was set to begin on July 8 as Hurricane Beryl was setting its sights on the Houston area. It was decided things would proceed as scheduled while keeping a close eye on the weather. The inpatient attendees reaped the benefits and had a blast doing arts and crafts and “canoeing on wheels,” even as the power flickered. “On that first day, a camper had tubes everywhere, doubled over his IV pole, didn’t want his mom to leave and by Friday he was running around like ‘Bye, mom!’,” said Kelsi Martinez, a child life specialist and committee member for Camp For All 2U. Another camper there to receive antivenom for a snakebite was having so much fun, he had completely forgotten why he was at the hospital in the first place!

As the week progressed, more campers were able to make it out to The Woodlands from surrounding areas, many without power, some with trees and limbs damaging their homes. The hospital itself had power but experienced widespread network outages impacting email, printers and Epic. But instead of worrying about those things or illnesses or treatments, the kids did archery and yoga, made music, went on scavenger hunts, played Bingo, fished off the balcony and pied Texas Children’s team members in the face. A young patient who has been on the receiving end of many blood draws was eager to pie his phlebotomist and she took it like a champ. Anything to make these kids feel just a bit better.

The happiness and fun were a balm for everyone, even the Texas Children’s team members. One nurse dealing with flood damage and a tree down on her home said walking through the camp hallway provided her relief, not even realizing how much she needed it. Parents echoed this sentiment, some crying tears of joy when receiving the call that camp was still on.

Not even a hurricane can stop Texas Children’s from providing the best care to our patients and families. In a time of crisis, the team at the Woodlands stepped up and created a safe and joyous environment for people experiencing untold stress. That is living the Texas Children’s way and we are thankful to each of those team members! Special shout out to the Camp 4 All 2U planning committee: Kelsi Martinez, Barbara Bledsoe, Cynda Conrad, En-en Peregrino and Clarissa Bustillos.

Tia Tinsley, a medical social worker serving the PICU and CICU at our North Austin Campus, came to Austin due to her husband’s military orders. A former Army member herself, she is no stranger to selfless service to others. She works tirelessly with patients and their families experiencing grief, loss and major life transitions. Tia exemplifies living compassionately, the Texas Children’s way.

What makes you happiest about being part of Texas Children’s One Amazing Team?

I was very excited about starting a journey with so many others at the new campus. My experience training in Houston with the social work team was wonderful, and they continue to be a supportive network for me.

Where do you see yourself in your career in five years?

I am passionate about helping individuals navigate grief and life transitions. Currently, I am working towards a certification in grief counseling, aiming to expand my ability to provide specialized therapy in this area. Concurrently, I am eager to further my experience as a yoga instructor and integrate a somatic therapeutic approach, enhancing my ability to support clients holistically.

What is the best thing a Texas Children’s Buddy/friend did for you?

I have an amazing coworker who has a desk right next to mine. She is supportive and generous with her time, always there for me when I need her perspective. We often work as a team, supporting each other, which creates a strong sense of security that I truly value.

What has been your most joyful or memorable patient experience?

I am filled with joy when I get to see the patients improving and their families finding some relief during such difficult times. I also hold a significant place in my memory for those families who have experienced loss.

How do you recharge your batteries away from work?

I thoroughly enjoy exploring and traveling with my family. As an Army veteran with an active-duty spouse, we’ve had the privilege of living in and visiting various locations, including overseas. With a strong sense of adventure, I’m constantly planning both small and large-scale outings that keep us living life to the fullest.

Know a team member who exemplifies our mission and core values? Help us recognize and reward your colleague as a Super Star! To nominate, click read more.

July 22, 2024

In a city long known for big cars and big attitudes, the new fleet of Texas Children’s shuttle buses and vans will definitely turn heads in Houston! Starting Monday, July 22, Facilities Operations is proud to have 18 new vehicles at the ready to shuttle team members and leaders between Medical Center buildings. (Thirteen shuttles circulate at a time, with five operating as spares.) Visit the G19 parking garage lobby between 5-10 a.m., to celebrate the launch and see the fleet for yourself.

Retrofitted with A/C running the entire length of the shuttle, a feature developed especially for Texas Children’s, the state-of-the-art fleet is unlike any other. Forty passengers in each standard shuttle will enjoy ventilation at the windows and aisles. Fresh colors replace drab black or grey seat coverings, and custom-designed exteriors wrap the body of each vehicle. Step-ups to shuttle doors are closer to ground level, making it easier and safer for riders of all kinds. Three electric-powered vans have been freshened up to welcome passengers.

“Our people deserve the best,” said Michael Jackson, director, Safety and Support Services Facilities Operations. “With a lot of pushing and pulling, going back and forth with the manufacturer, we were able to get so much done. What an impact this is going to have! It’s pretty amazing.”

Having more than one fuel option to power the fleet will help new buses and vans work well under pressure. Old shuttles ran on propane fuel, only, which would sometimes thin out in high temperatures and make vehicles inoperable. The new fleet can operate on energy efficient propane, but it can also use gas to power vehicles on intense summer days. Jackson quipped, “When temperatures soar, we won’t get beat by the heat!”

and come rain or come shine, we’ll look and feel great… riding in style!

After completing his PhD at the University of Verona in Italy, Alessandro Baldan was searching for a post-doc position in the United States. He soon began working with Dr. Bertuch in pediatric hematology. Now, he is a staff scientist in Research Tissue Support Services, supporting clinical trials, taking care of the Tissue Bank and supervising operations in the lab. You’d never guess from his impressive list of credentials that he moonlights as a performer in musicals and plays!

What brings you joy at Texas Children’s?

It’s knowing I’m doing my part in the hospital’s mission to improve the well-being of children.

What has been the most rewarding moment in your time at Texas Children’s?

The feedback I received after my first annual performance as staff scientist in RTSS. A new position in a leadership role comes with a lot of challenges and knowing I achieved what was expected of me and that my work was appreciated was greatly rewarding.

What was the best thing a Texas Children’s buddy/friend ever did for you?

It was taking me out for dinner on my birthday. During my first year at TCH, I was so focused on my work that I forgot to celebrate myself. It’s wonderful to have friends at work that care about you.

How do you recharge your batteries away from work?

I perform in musicals and plays. It’s how I find my zen and it helps me connect with lots of amazing artists. Recently, I was in the regional professional premiere of The Bodyguard the Musical where I played my first villain role. I am usually cast in comedic roles like Max in The Sound of Music, or Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast, so that was a big challenge and lots of fun.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I am a trained actor, opera singer and musician. For a while, I studied at a conservatory of music in Italy. Also, twice I won the Houston Broadway World Award for Best Supporting Performer in a Musical.

Do you have a story to tell? With more than 17,000 team members and countless Texas Children’s locations across Houston and Austin, we don’t want to miss a thing.

Whether it’s caring for a patient, recognizing a colleague, solving a problem or reaching a milestone, we always strive to highlight the great work of our One Amazing Team. If there’s new technology, innovations or ways of working that have made your job easier or helped you be more efficient, keep us posted.

We recently started profiling team members with unique hobbies and special connections to Texas Children’s. Please reach out if you or a colleague wants to share their experience!

To submit a story idea, news item or event, please read our content guidelines below and then complete this form. The HR/Corporate Communications department will review your submission and contact you for more information. ⁠

Content guidelines

Content selections and scheduling are at the discretion of the HR/Corporate Communications team. Please request content at least three weeks in advance.

Featured (Hero Space) Stories

New stories post every Monday. These stories need to appeal to a mass audience. Content includes
major initiatives, such as new organizational wide programs, Annual Enrollment, Flu, innovations, new technology, new buildings and/or services and people features.

News You Can Use

New listings post every Monday. This section offers short news items relevant to individuals or items that could affect operations. These are not long form or feature stories. Examples include shuttle schedules, award application deadlines, new employee listings, blood drives, etc.

Awards & Recognition

New stories post every Monday. This section includes organizational, individual, team, external and internal awards and recognition. Examples include Daisy, Super Star, Bravo, Shamrock, provider excellence, grants, accreditations, external awards, etc.

Events calendar

To submit an event for the calendar, it must be open to everyone in the organization and at least two weeks prior to the event date. Submissions must include date, times, location, description, registration links, speakers, contact information, etc. For requests for the featured event section, please include a graphic, logo or photo.

Due to limited space available to feature stories and important news relevant to the majority of the organization, it’s not possible to accommodate all requests for content. In some cases, there may be opportunities to feature your news in other communications channels.

Fixed areas of the site

These sections have fixed or predetermined content based on research and analytics, so we cannot accommodate content requests or submissions for these sections:

  • Quick links buttons (Voyager, Human Resources, Kronos, Forms, IS Service Portal, etc.)
  • Top navigation landing pages (Resources, News & Events, Sites, Help)
  • Current initiatives
  • Blogs and newsletters

Industry best practices and organizational research drive the content strategy and design for the new Connect site. The goal is to provide an informative and useful resource for our workforce. We look forward to hearing from you!