Since the end of football season is just around the corner, I would like to present a timely quote that helps describe the true spirit and vision of Mercy Children’s Hospital (MCH). It was famed Green Bay Packers coach Vince Lombardi who said, “People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defenses, or the problems of modern society.” You may not think running a professional football team has much in common with providing high-quality healthcare for children — but it does. The common thread is “collaboration.” Some call it teamwork, others simply refer to it as working together. Whatever the name, collaboration is the engine that drives MCH closer to realizing its true mission.

Thanks to its unique partnership with the Medical College of Ohio (MCO), St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center and a broad range of community-based efforts throughout the region, MCH is a glowing example of the positive energy created by strong partnerships. An important element of our mission is to be a strong advocate for children. The Child Advocacy Committee of MCH is a collaborative effort of Mercy Health Partners, MCO and a number of community and civic groups.

The Positive Choices program is responding successfully to the challenge of teens having sex at an earlier age and before marriage. This important program teaches the social, psychological and physical health advantages of abstaining from sexual activity until marriage. The program is making a difference. Lives are being changed for the better. Positive Choices was developed by the St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center Pediatric Services in partnership with the federal government, several state and local agencies, MCO, the Stranahan Foundation and the St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center Foundation.

MCH is a member of no less than 18 local grassroots initiatives. We provide leadership in some of these, and we support and participate in the group work of others.

MCH remains committed to working with the community to develop long-term creative solutions to problems that affect the well-being of our children. We continue to nurture and grow our current relationships, as well as actively seek out other opportunities to team up with the community.

Unlike an NFL team, our role is much greater than scoring touchdowns or kicking field goals. We accept our sometimes challenging leadership role because it brings dedicated people and organizations together, and moves us closer to our common vision.

If you are interested in hearing more about our efforts, I invite you to visit www.mercyweb.org and click the Hugs Online button.

Sincerely, Richard R. Evens President, Mercy Children's Hospital