Michael Spaulding

Very few times in our lives we take the time to pause and think of our own mortality. Is not until someone we know or someone close to us suffers an unfortunate event, that we realize how vulnerable we are.  

Mike Spaulding was one of our most visible supervisors, a great leader and as Ochsner Baton Rouge Facilities Management Director, Mike was one of our jewels.  Mike passed away yesterday morning and we can't still come to grasp that reality.  This is a tragic loss of an outstanding mentor, husband and friend, but above all, a great human being.

Mike dedicated countless hours of his own time to making our community a better place, touching thousands of lives along the way.  Many of us did not know this,  but Mike had a foundation to help and mentor kids in need.  

When it came to work, those who knew Mike can say that he was a team player, always with a smile.  Mike was instrumental in keeping our hospital running during recent natural disasters and when things malfunctioned at the clinic.  

As Mike rests in the peace of our lord,  we all  know that he made a difference to many people, including myself.  

Let's imitate Mike's purpose in life and make sure we all make a difference to our families, friends, patients and coworkers! His soul will jump with joy........


Aldo J. Russo, M.D.


 

Isaac is no laughing matter!

With just a few hours left until Isaac makes landfall, our state has made an amazing job preparing to receive the wrath of nature. We have been able to capitalize on our previous deficiencies and mishaps, creating a well orchestrated response. From the police force to the Emergency Medical response personal,  we are ready for the worst, expecting the best of every one involved. 

The key of this success relies on great coordination and communication. It is clear that we are taking this storm seriously, and we can not afford not to. 

From my own personal experience, our organization has put in place an efficient and well organized contingency that consists of different teams and  volunteers that can stay caring for the sick without interruption. Logistics had always been a challenge, but we are proud to say that,  at Ochsner we have looked into every detail. The little problems that may arise as we experience the storm, are addressed immediately. I can not be more proud to be part of this great group. I want to congratulate every one helping to keep our hospitals running and letting us take care of the sick and the needed. The work that you all do completes our integrated health care system. 

Even though the biblical meaning for Isaac is "He will laugh", this time we can assure that we are prepared so we will be laughing and celebrating at the end, not in 180 years, but in just a few hours. 

  Picture of I-12 and our parking lot Ochsner Medical Center Baton Rouge @ 9:22 AM