Our certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs) at UPMC Presbyterian stepped up this holiday season to bring joy to two local families through the Red Cross Adopt-a-Family program. Spearheaded by Sara J. Fauls, MSN, CRNA, the CRNAs came together to provide gifts and holiday meals to families facing difficult times.
The team was matched with two families: a single mother with three children and a couple with two children. Each family member provided a wish list of desired gifts, and our CRNAs enthusiastically embraced the challenge of making their holidays memorable. Donations from the group funded the purchase of every item on the wish lists. Additionally, surplus funds allowed for the purchase of two Giant Eagle gift cards, valued at $235 each, ensuring the families could enjoy good holiday meals.
UPMC Presbyterian physician Dr. Thomas Gasior joined the CRNAs in this heartwarming effort, contributing to the successful fulfillment of the families’ holiday needs.
On December 9, 2024, the team delivered the gifts to the program's donation center, where they were handed over to program coordinators for distribution to the families.
This act of generosity reflects the compassion and commitment of our UPMC Presbyterian CRNAs and underscores their dedication to the community. Inspired by this year’s success, the team plans to make this initiative an annual tradition.