TRMC kicks off hospital week with roaring fun, costumes

Mobsters invaded the Troy Regional Medical Center with their Tommy guns on Monday, but it wasn’t a stick-up.

Employees donned traditional Roaring ‘20s clothes as flappers and mobsters made their way from office to office handing out period treats to staff members, such as “bathtub gin” lemonade, Twinkies and Cracker Jacks.

The dress-up day was part of National Hospital Week. The week dates back to 1921 and is a time to recognize the relationship between hospital staff and the community. At TRMC, it’s also a time for employees to celebrate the hospital’s history and the professionals who work there.

Department heads were divided up into teams and each have different days to prepare something special for employees. Last year the theme was movies and this year the focus is decades.

“The ‘20s was so fun and so different from any other time,” said Alice Teal, compliance officer for the hospital. “We thought we could be creative with this time.”

Teal and her group decorated a pushcart to look like a getaway car with bullet holes.

Karen Herring who handles marketing for the hospital said National Hospital Week provides a great family atmosphere and helps the staff connect in new ways.

“You really get to brainstorm and be creative with folks you may not see every day,” Herring said. “It’s a special time at the hospital.”

In addition to Monday’s fun, Tuesday will bring a ‘80s-themed photo contest and snacks, there will be a groovy ‘70s breakfast on Wednesday, a family cookout on Thursday and a special ‘60s treat on Friday.

“It gives us an opportunity to recognize our employees and let them know how much we appreciate all they do for Troy Regional Medical Center and the community,” said Teresa Grimes, chief executive officer for TRMC.