With the recent events that occurred in Boston during the marathon and the fertilizer plant explosion in West, Texas, Great Bend Regional Hospital wanted to show its support for the individuals who may have been impacted by these events.
Chief Human Resources Officer Robert Bilak joined the organization six months ago from JetBlue Airways in New York, N.Y.  Boston, Logan International Airport is one of their main bases with an employee population that is one of the largest in the company.
“When the Boston event occurred the first thing I thought of was who and if any crew members were impacted by this,” Bilak said. “In speaking with the Boston leadership team they communicated that it was a very scary thing not just because of the event but what the following days would bring. All crew members were safe and emotionally stable.
“Even though Kansas does not have a BlueCity that JetBlue flies to we wanted them to know that we sincerely care for their well-being.”
The staff composed a letter together with a photo that was sent to the JetBlue Boston leadership team:
Hello our Boston friends:
We know the past two weeks have not been easy for you but we do sincerely hope you are doing well.
Here in Great Bend, Kan., we wanted to share a little of our support for all of you. Even though we are approximately 1,700 miles apart the tragic occurrences in Boston and West, Texas could be felt here at home.”
The letter goes on to explain that employees at Great Bend Regional Hospital, Central Kansas Family Practice and Heartland Regional Health Clinic were wearing ribbons in gray, red, white and blue together with Boston specific and patriotic clothing to show our support.
GBHS Administrator Pam Chambers said that as a hospital one the main goals is delivering excellent, quality patient care.  In this case it has extended outside of the facility almost 1,700 miles away.