Haircuts, manicures and massages — self-care for many, a treat for many more — were part of a Patient Appreciation Day for Catholic Charities clients of the Mother of Mercy Free Medical Clinics.
About 800 patients and their family members came to the Woodbridge clinic on a picture-prefect Sept. 21 for some TLC — tender, loving care. They also received groceries, had a chance to win prizes and their children were entertained throughout the day.
The second annual event drew more than 60 regular and new volunteers from Our Lady of Angels Church in Woodbridge, All Saints Catholic Church in Manassas, Cursillo and Emmaus movements, as well as family members of staff working the grills and food tables, bounce house, barbers, manicure, face painting and raffle ticket stations.
Catholic Charities St. Lucy Food Project provided 100 bags of food for patients, and other anonymous donors provided prizes, including 55- and 40-inch TVs, tablets, pots and pans, other kitchen items, jewelry, paintings, and more.
“Bishop Michael Burbidge calls us to a ‘radical solidarity’ with the people entrusted to our care,” said Catholic Charities President and CEO Stephen Carattini. “Days like this where people are offered the opportunity to be celebrated, to be recognized, and to be appreciated are an important part of our ministry at Catholic Charities. “
“Many of our patients and their families cannot afford professional services like photography, haircuts, facials, and makeup,” said Clinic Director Alexandra Luevano. She said one couple, both dealing with complex medical issues, said how refreshing the day was for them. Another patient who couldn’t work due to a recent surgery told Luevano, “We truly needed this.”
“An event like this cannot happen without the support and hard work of so many staff and volunteers from local parishes and our community: parking attendants, hair stylists, manicurists, makeup artists, massage therapists, cooks and grill masters, and so many others who gave of their time to make someone else feel appreciated and loved,” Carattini said. “It was beautiful to behold.”
