Meet Renee Henderson, manager of Patient & Family Services at Texas Children’s Hospital – North Austin. With 20+ years of experience as a social worker in Austin, Renee and her growing team can’t wait to meet and start serving the families who walk through our hospital doors early next year.
What brought you to Texas Children’s?
I’ve been a social worker in Austin for many years now, and love watching this community grow. I have served the community in many ways, and began working as a medical social worker nine years ago. Medical social work is a profession that allows us to support patients at their greatest time of need. I came to TCH due to the amazing reputation, and I was excited to be a part of something special for our Austin community.
What’s the best career or work advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice came from my dad, who reminded me that work shouldn’t be “work” but rather a calling or personal purpose. We spend the majority of our life in our jobs, making it important to find joy in what we do every day.
Why are you excited about Texas Children’s growing presence in Austin?
Austin has grown so quickly, particularly over the last 10-15 years. This growth has transplanted many families from all over the country here to our city. Our Austin families deserve to have the quality of care that Texas Children’s is known for all over the world.
What makes Austin a great place to live and work?
Austin is becoming a big town, but still has a small town feel. There is always something going on from music festivals to sporting events to craft fairs. Our family loves going to the H-E-B Center for hockey games, Round Rock Express baseball games, and walking miles and miles of hiking trails all over town.
What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
I am truly passionate about making sure our families have the support they need during their hospitalization and beyond. The most rewarding thing is to be present in a family’s most difficult moment, while having the opportunity to support and connect them to needed resources. It is an honor to provide relief to our families during very challenging and often unexpected events.
We understand the challenges families encounter when a child or loved one is hospitalized and away from home. Designed to offer assistance and resources to help meet their needs, our Patient & Family Services (including child life, social work, family advocacy, guest services, spiritual care and more) are critical in providing the right care.
Right Care, Right Place, Right People. Now ranked #1 in Texas and #3 in the nation, we’re bringing the best to Austin. Click here for updates, resources and more on the Austin Expansion SharePoint.