May 12, 2011 | A new sculpture on display at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Medical Center in memory of a nurse’s mother will serve as a lasting symbol of the quality and compassionate care nurses show patients and families each and every day at UAMS.

Amy Hester, B.S.N, R.N., a clinical services manager at UAMS, was honored at a May 10 reception by UAMS staff for donating a sculpture that is permanently displayed in the UAMS Medical Center near the patient discharge area. Hester’s mother, Donna Ritchey, was treated at UAMS.

“This gift is not only in honor of my mother, but the quality and professional care she received here,” Hester said. “It will be a constant reminder of the top-notch care we should strive for every day extending from the patient down to their family and loved ones.”

The sculpture, “A Healer’s Touch,” is a hand-carved serpentine stone carved by Shona artists working in Zimbabwe. Shona artists are known for the stone sculpture, which is an ancient tribal tradition that has seen artistic revival and worldwide recognition in the last century. The piece depicts one human form flowing unbroken into another, and is reflective of the bond of care and trust that exists between healer and patient.

Dick Pierson, vice chancellor of clinical programs and executive director at the UAMS Medical Center, said this event fits perfectly into the week’s celebration of “Hospital and Nurses Week.”

“During this week we are always mindful of the numerous ways and countless hours that our clinical staff gives to creating an environment of comfort, hope and healing for all those who come to UAMS,” Pierson said. “Today, we give special recognition of another dimension of compassion from Amy Hester, who has given an outstanding contribution that demonstrates to all of us that a gift to UAMS of any size has far-reaching benefits for patients, families, visitors and staff.”

The sculpture is tied into a national program in which UAMS participates called the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award, which is presented monthly at UAMS and other participating hospitals nationwide, is given to nurses who exhibit extraordinary compassion. Those chosen receive a miniature version of “A Healer’s Touch.” Patients, family and staff members can nominate UAMS nurses.

Hester received the DAISY Award in August 2010.

“We are so grateful to Amy for donating this beautiful and meaningful piece of art to us,” said Mary Helen Forrest, R.N., chief nursing officer in patient care services at UAMS. “This will be a constant symbol of the ‘healing touch’ our nurses provide throughout UAMS Medical Center.”