The Craft of Caring: Stories of Compassion at UPMC

By: UPMC

First Friday, UPMC’s digital internal magazine, publishes monthly and aims to capture the spirit of innovation, dedication to caring, and attention to quality that permeates the work done across UPMC every day.

The May issue of First Friday highlights the profound impact of compassion, a common thread that unites us at UPMC. Each story showcases how individuals embody this value in different ways, contributing to our mission of providing exceptional care and fostering a supportive community.

From a mother’s drive to make a difference in the health care industry to a physician’s commitment to building trusting relationships with patients, and a community of knitters and crocheters spreading goodwill, our team gives back wholeheartedly. By nurturing a caring environment, we enhance both patient care and the workplace experience, demonstrating that compassion is at the heart of everything we do.

Scientist. Engineer. Investment Analyst. Mom.

As a woman scientist and career-driven mother, Kelsey Holden, senior analyst, UPMC Enterprises, applies a unique perspective in her work investing in health care solutions — especially challenges affecting women — to create a better future for her daughter.

The Craft of Caring

One stitch at a time, dedicated volunteers across UPMC knit and crochet handmade items that bring comfort and joy to patients. From newborn hats to prosthetics for breast cancer patients, their creations symbolize the compassion and care that UPMC extends to the communities we serve.

Practices Make Progress

Eric Frankel, MD, vice president, UPMC Primary Care Service Line, shares his vision for balancing the strengths of a large health system with the unique needs of individual community practices.

Note: some links within the digital magazine are only accessible for UPMC employees and will not open for external readers.