Aquanetta Hicks believes it was divine intervention that led her to Texas Children’s. After ten years working with the Navy in San Diego providing couples counseling and suicide awareness trainings, a friend sent her the Indeed job posting. Shortly after, she was thrilled to get the call: “We want you at Texas Children’s!”
The opportunity to be part of the new Workforce Chaplain program at the best pediatric and women’s hospital in the state of Texas is something she does not take lightly. Having friends who provide chaplain services to both patients and employees, she realizes it is a profound gift to be able to solely support the workforce, or as she likes to say, “Helping the people who help people.” This is the number one goal, never pushing any religious or spiritual agenda, but always to be an ear to listen and a shoulder to lean on should anyone need it.
Aquanetta has had the chance to work with many different people and departments during her short time at Texas Children’s, but her most rewarding work has been the Blessing of the Hands. During this ceremony, the hands of the staff are blessed for the purpose of taking care of the patients and families at Texas Children’s. This support is available for all team members, regardless of faith, who may need a reminder that what they do and who they are is essential to the success of our mission.
October 22 – 28 is Pastoral Care Week and the theme this year is “Chaplaincy and Mental Health: It’s Healthy to Get Help.” For Aquanetta, this week gives her and the Workforce Chaplain team an opportunity to remind our employees that asking for help for themselves is equally important as helping others. Every day she sees our dedicated workforce show up to provide exceptional care for our patients, even when experiencing challenges in their own lives. Providing both spiritual and non-religious support, our Workforce Chaplains are a caring presence and are available for our One Amazing Team’s emotional needs at work and in their personal lives.
To request Chaplain Services and Support call 832-824-3327 or email eap@texaschildrens.org. To learn more about the other chaplains on the team, head to our Spiritual Well-Being page.