HCC sells wreaths to help support
nursing education
by Cindy Abole Public Relations
Wreaths have long been part of Christmas and holiday traditions, and at Hollings Cancer Center (HCC) 26 beautifully decorated wreaths are ready to adorn homes this season.
Denise Wiese
attaches price tags on the Christmas wreaths displayed in the Hollings
Cancer Center.Beginning Dec. 3, HCC staff began selling handmade Christmas wreaths to support nursing education and professional development.
The fundraiser was the brainchild of Rhonda Breeland, R.N., HCC nurse manager. Breeland wanted to find a creative way to continue support of a nursing enrichment fund established years ago to benefit HCC nursing staff. Breeland purchased wreaths and rallied nurses, businesses and community representatives to decorate them. Participants included area florists, nurseries, interior designers and other businesses. The average price of each handmade wreath is $50.
“The idea originated with my sister,” said Breeland, who joined MUSC and Hollings last January. “Our staff at Hollings is the best and our oncology nurses are especially magnificent. What I wanted to do is establish an annual fundraiser that can support and benefit our nurses and promote excellence and professionalism in their roles. The wreath project was a fun and wonderful idea that quickly gained support.”
Several registered nurses are currently seeking oncology nurse certification through the Oncology Nurses Certification Corporation and the Oncology Nurses Society. The comprehensive, computer-based test, which is given quarterly, costs $335 per person. Eligible nurses can seek certification in surgical oncology or medical oncology nursing. Staff also can benefit professionally through membership with the Charleston Chapter of ONS.
“Professional certification can benefit MUSC nurses through personal, professional growth,” said Theo Fouts, R.N., Charleston Chapter of ONS program director. “Oncology certified nurses gain valuable experience that allows them to provide the holistic care needed for patients and their families. Membership with ONS is a great way for nurses to stay informed about new treatments, therapies and practices, as well as fellowship and interaction with Lowcountry oncology nurses.”
Claudia Miller is among a handful of nurses seeking ONS certification. For the past six months, she and others have been reviewing information to prepare for their certification test in 2008.
“In oncology nursing, there are so many changes in the field to keep up with,” said Miller, who has worked as an oncology nurse since 2001. “Achieving ONS certification will help me grow professionally and give me the tools I need to provide the best level of care for my patients.”
At last tally, only three wreaths remain in the holiday fundraiser, which has netted more than $1,500. For information, contact breeland@musc.edu.
2007 HCC Wreath Fundraiser Project Sponsors
The Greenery, Hyam’s Nursery, Dixie Dunbar Studios, The Cake Stand, Charleston Blue Designs, Charleston Blue Designs, Creech’s Florist, Hoods Florist & Gifts, Jinni Bullard, Sweet Magnolia, The Butterfly Flower Shop, HCC Volunteer Services, Rosalie Guerin, Tina Savage, Cheryl Graham, Jinni Bullard, Shanda Bowman, Elizabeth Pates, Kim Stewart, Kady McMurray, Shannon Ravenel, Annie Lees and Patty Platt.
Friday, Dec. 14, 2007
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