Annmarie, Winthrop's new Welcome Center Representative, can be likened to a hotel concierge, a jack of all trades, so to speak, who helps each patient and visitor who walks through the lobby.

"My job is very diversified," said Annmarie. "I meet and greet everyone who walks through Winthrop's doors, helping patients, family members and visitors get to where they need to go, answering their questions and concerns."

And help she does... Annmarie has assisted patients with everything from obtaining wheelchairs to getting handicapped parking permits for the elderly and disabled. On occasion, she will encounter families who speak a foreign language and is able to help them as well, using a new technology called the Cyraphone®, a dual handset telephonic interpretation system that can connect a patient to an interpreter in over 150 languages.

In addition to helping patients and visitors navigate around the Hospital, Annmarie also works closely with patient relations, discharge planning and social work, helping patients access these services.

Something people most appreciate is the personal touch Annmarie provides. "I often help families waiting for news on a loved one in surgery," she said. "Waiting for news for even one minute can seem like hours. Simply making a phone call to the unit to find out any information means the world to the family members who are waiting anxiously. I take the time to get to know people like they are my friends and give them a sense of comfort."

Annmarie describes her job as very rewarding. She loves to watch all of the newborns leave with their proud new parents and enjoys talking to everyone who passes by her welcome desk. One of the best parts of her job, she explains is hearing all the nice things people have to say about Winthrop.

"Patients are always telling me how incredible our nurses are, how helpful everyone at Winthrop is, and how Winthrop is truly a wonderful place."

For more information about Winthrop and its Institutes for Care, call 1-516-663-0333.

ore than 400 cancer survivors, their families and healthcare providers celebrated life at Winthrop-University Hospital's annual Cancer Survivors Day on Friday, June 7th.

Cancer Survivor's Day is a national recognition of the indomitable spirit of the more than 8.9 million Americans dealing with a diagnosis of cancer.

Survivors of every age took part in the celebration, sharing experiences and milestones in their battles with cancer as well as words of encouragement with friends and the Winthrop doctors and nurses who cared for them. The evening was dedicated to all those who have dealt with the diagnosis of cancer, celebrating their lives and courage.