Here at Spooner, we have a commitment to treating the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. In our current environment, every one of us could use a friendly reminder to count the blessings all around us – no matter how big or small. We can all agree this year might not have been the year we all anticipated, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find the bright spots. Plus, regular expressions of gratitude are related to improved health, happiness, and performance. With Thanksgiving a day away, our Spooner teams from across the valley took some time to share what they are thankful for and how they are celebrating. 

Desert Ridge Food Drive

Aren and Heather, Spooner Desert Ridge

Nothing like a green beans and beets cheers from Aren and Heather. The Spooner Desert Ridge team held a Food Drive during the month of November. All items are being donated to the Hope for Hunger Food Bank at the Phoenix Rescue Mission. Clinic Director Garrett Wasson said they’ve collected a little over 80 items so far and hope to keep the number growing!

Shoutout to Spooner North Mesa Clinic Director Ryan Bell for checking in with his team on what they are thankful for. Here’s what they had to say: 

“I’m thankful for my work family and my family. I’m always around my support system who cares about me and I couldn’t ask for anything more.”  

“I am thankful for such a welcoming and positive work environment that I can continue to learn and help patients. Everyday has been fun and eventful!”  

“I’m grateful for stuffing on Thanksgiving Day, coffee to keep me energized, but mostly y’all for being supportive as I grow this tiny human for another 3 months.”   

“I am grateful for an amazing, supportive team that I can laugh with. Also grateful for the mountains, sunrise/sunsets and the stars in the sky.”  

Spooner Avondale held a team Thanksgiving potluck, a tradition they do every year, and made their thankful turkey hands. The potluck this year also served as a surprise baby shower for Clinic Director Emily Baker!  Congratulations again!

Spooner Glendale Clinic Director Clayton Hunter says, “I’m grateful that we have such a hardworking team here in Glendale and the ongoing support in the back from Central Client Services, RCM, and our Admin team.” 

After talking with our teammates here at Spooner Headquarters, we found out their thankful list ranges from racing bikes and spending time with the kids, enjoying the beautiful Arizona weather, to having family in town and being able to celebrate their good health. 

Spooner Fountain Hills Clinic Director John Kline said, “I am thankful that my team has come together over the last 8 months, sacrificed and gone above and beyond for our patients who continue to rely on us for their MSK needs!”

When Julianne Brandt, COO, was asked about what she’s thankful for, she said, “I am thankful for the continued display of commitment, and for people bringing their whole selves to drive our purpose. I am seeing the challenges and sacrifices that everyone is making and it is not lost on me. I am thankful for our team members who are thinking differently, working differently, and doing so while helping their teammates along the way. I am thankful for the smiles, but also for the tears and the sweat that prove that we are digging deep daily to keep going and stick together. The progress we are making comes in many forms, and I am thankful for that in each and every individual here.”

Last but certainly not least, we are thankful for you. Thank you to our amazing patients who put their trust in us every day to help them both move better and feel better. Thank you also to the local physicians and other providers that entrust us with the their patient’s care. We simply would not be here without you.

Expressing gratitude doesn’t have to come to a halt once the holidays are over. Make gratitude part of your daily routine and carry it through your day to the people around you. We would love to continue the chain of gratitude. What are you thankful for? Leave a comment, we’d love to hear from you!