University of Tennessee Athletics
HOSPITAL VISIT MAKES IMPRESSION ON VOLS
December 27, 2006 | Football
Dec. 27, 2006
Tampa, Fla. - On Wednesday morning, six University of Tennessee football student-athletes, along with head coach Phillip Fulmer and associate director of student-athlete welfare Judy Jackson, had a chance to visit the St. Joseph's Children's Hospital of Tampa and spend some time with patients and their parents.
St. Joseph's Children's Hospital of Tampa is a premier 164-bed hospital committed to providing everything needed for the health and well-being of children. St. Joseph's is best described as an innovative, family-centered hospital known for its high-tech medical care in a child-friendly environment. Bright, warm primary colors welcome children from the minute they walk through the hospital's front door into the spacious, cheerful lobby.
Senior Child Life Specialist Leah Frohnerath met with the group and escorted them on their one-hour tour. She stated that visits like this are cherished and uplifting to the patients, parents and staff.
"It's a friendly face and someone that is not coming to do a procedure," said Frohnerath. "A gift with a signature is something awesome for these kids. It's a nice break in what can be a stressful time."
In addition, a distinguished 200-member medical staff makes possible the hospital's international reputation for excellence. With more than 80 pediatric physician specialists representing 25 medical and surgical disciplines, the hospital is a valuable community resource for children and their families.
An excellent team of nurses, rehabilitation therapists and other health care professionals also offer an exceptional level of skill and dedicated service to children and their families.
Coach Phillip Fulmer and the student-athletes had the opportunity to go to different wards of the hospital to spend some time with patients that are bed-stricken. They gave out autographed caps, visors, posters and football cards.
"It's nice to be able to do make these visits," said linebacker Ryan Karl. "A lot of kids need a bright spot and it gives us a good feeling."
Earlier in the morning, around 40 Volunteers football players participated in the FCA breakfast, joining in fellowship with members of the Penn State squad and local community leaders.
Fulmer stressed that both Tennessee and Penn State players enjoy their bowl experiences because those are the memories that will stick with the players for years to come.
