Patients at Parkland to receive valentines from nurses
Health center staff expected to deliver more than 3,500 cards
For many of us, Valentine’s Day brings back memories of childhood classrooms filled with decorated shoeboxes, carefully chosen cards and the simple excitement of feeling remembered. At Parkland Health, that same spirit of connection and kindness continues each February — this year through a tradition that brings comfort and joy to patients across the system.
From Feb. 12–19, Parkland nurses will deliver personalized valentines cards to patients during the day shift, night shift, and throughout the weekend, ensuring no one is missed. Now in its 11th year, the annual initiative reflects Parkland’s commitment to caring for the whole person — recognizing that emotional support plays an important role in healing.
The project is sponsored by Parkland’s Professional Excellence in Nursing (PEN) Council, which provides English- and Spanish-language valentines for nurses and staff to personalize for their patients. Members of Parkland’s leadership team also participate by signing cards. In total, more than 3,500 valentines will be delivered to hospitalized patients and to those receiving care in Parkland’s network of community-based health centers.
For patients coping with illness, injury, or extended hospital stays, a simple card can offer a powerful reminder that they are seen and supported. Nurses say these moments of connection — brief but meaningful — often help lift patients’ spirits and provide a welcome distraction from the challenges of their care.
“Our support goes beyond what people traditionally think of as medical care and includes the emotional needs of our patients as well,” said Donna Richardson, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Chief Nurse Executive at Parkland Health. “When a patient receives a valentine from the staff caring for them, it’s an unexpected gift that can brighten their day and offer comfort, even if just for a moment.”
The tradition is equally meaningful for Parkland’s nurses and staff. Taking time to sign and deliver valentines allows caregivers to pause, connect, and reflect on the human side of their work.
“Signing and delivering these cards not only lifts the spirits of our patients,” Richardson added, “it’s also a wonderful morale booster for our staff. It reminds us why compassion and kindness are such powerful parts of healing.”
For more information about services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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