Despite bitter cold and snowflakes in October, more than 650 people showed up for Ascension Via Christi St. Teresa’s first Trunk-or-Treat in Wichita, Kansas.
“The attendance was way beyond what we had expected,” said Steve Gillies, Specialist, Physician and Community Relations. “It was absolutely a home run.”
Attendees got the chance to visit 20 trunks staffed by associates and their families who provided the candy and fun for visitors. Among the participants were surgeon and hernia specialist Ragnar Peterson, MD, Ascension Medical Group Via Christi, and his family.
“The Trunk-or-Treat was a great event. My daughter Scarlett, also known as ‘Baby Shark,’ enjoyed it immensely, as did all the kids and families who participated,” Dr. Peterson said.
The trunks competed for best team, individual and department efforts. The goal of the event was to invite people to experience Ascension Via Christi St. Teresa for something other than an unexpected emergency room visit.
“We were more than pleased by our turnout and support from our associates and our community,” Steve said. “We are looking forward to hosting more community events to get to know our neighbors and those we serve at St. Teresa.”
Other Halloween activities throughout the week included a sneak peek associate and family trick or treat at Ascension Via Christi St. Joseph’s newly completed sixth-floor activity center, and pumpkin decorating contests at St. Joseph’s, Ascension Via Christi St. Francis and the Ascension Via Christi business office. Additionally, associates throughout Ascension Via Christi hospitals and clinics got in the spirit by donning costumes and enjoying treats and pot lucks with their co-workers.
“Flu season soon will be in full swing, so it’s important to take a moment to have fun with our teammates and their families as well as with those we serve,” said Kevin Strecker, Chief Operating Officer, Ascension Via Christi. “I think by everyone’s account, we achieved that this year and more.”
