|
Elvis is in the house.
Where can you see Elvis and Forrest Gump on the same stage? You could have at the Burn Foundation's 2012 Burn Survivors Reunion. Approximately 300 burn survivors, family members, Burn Center staff, and volunteers gathered outside the Joseph M. Still Burn Center for a day filled with fellowship and fun. There was a chili cook-off between some competitive first responders, face painting for the children, tours of the new Burn Center, and a balloon release. The JMS staff provided entertainment which included clogging by Beretta Coffman and daughter Kinnley, a flash mob dance and, who could forget, a duet by none other than Elvis and Forrest Gump. It was one of those rare days filled with nothing but smiles, love and laughter. The Burn Survivors Reunion was a time for patients and families to celebrate their survival and reconnect with their healthcare staff. The Burn Foundation was fortunate to host this joyous celebration of life and triumph. |
|
We are pleased to welcome Laura Brown, our new Patient-Family Liaison. She attended Georgia College and State University and is currently working on her degree in Social Work. Originally from Americus, Georgia, Laura has called Augusta home for the last five years while working as a Customer Service Supervisor for a telecommunication's company.  As a former JMS Burn Center patient, Laura is particularly sensitive to the needs of our patients and guests. In 2011, Laura received a near fatal wasp sting which resulted in a three week stay at the Burn Center. "I give thanks every day for my health," says Laura. She remembers how important it was to have her family nearby. In her spare time, she enjoys giving guitar lessons, volunteering at a soup kitchen, and reading. We are glad that Laura's journey back to health brought her to our door. |
|
Granted, We Are Grateful
Recently, the Burn Foundation received several grants for Project Sojourner. We are deeply grateful to our friends at the Knox Foundation, Georgia Power Foundation, and Publix Supermarket Charities. We will be able to refurbish four more guest rooms because of their generous support.  |
|
Angels Unawares
Hospitality is at the heart of the Burn Foundation's mission and we are sometimes reminded of the Biblical verse, "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares" (Hebrews 13:2). This was the case when Mr. Philip Guyton of Florence, SC, checked into the Chavis House. He and his wife were our guests for several weeks while his step-son recovered at the Burn Center. They were so grateful to stay at the Burn Foundation's guest house that he offered his "handyman" services. Almost daily, he dropped by to ask if he could fix a leaky faucet or a misaligned door. Indeed, sometimes we do entertain angels. |
