How Ina Bicknell’s Generosity Impacts Phelps Health Patients

Ina Bicknell discusses why she gives back to Phelps Health and why others should donate their time, money or resources.

How did you first get involved with the Phelps Health Foundation?

I am a retired educator who lives in Rolla, Missouri. While undergoing lung cancer treatment at the Phelps Health Delbert Day Cancer Institute (DDCI) a couple of years ago, I noticed the front landscaping at the DDCI needed some TLC (tender loving care) to make it a more welcoming and friendly space for patients.

So, I contacted the Phelps Health Foundation to see how I could assist, and they introduced me to Crystal Lorah, director of the Auxiliary and Volunteer Services. Crystal set me up to volunteer for a landscaping project at the DDCI, and I have been volunteering at Phelps Health for over a year and a half now.

What inspired you to give to our organization?

I have always felt that you should give back, whether it is your time, money or resources. I hope that by volunteering my time and resources, I’m leaving things better than I found them and making a positive impact in the community where I live.

What do you wish other people knew about the Phelps Health Foundation?

The Phelps Health Foundation is deeply engaged with communities the Hospital serves, offering events that cater to everyone regardless of how much they can donate. They are greatly appreciative of any contribution, whether they’re financial, resources, expertise or time. Every little bit can make a difference in the lives of patients at Phelps Health, and I’ve seen that firsthand.

The Phelps Health Foundation also does an excellent job of acknowledging the work that I and other volunteers and donors do. Knowing that my contributions are making a difference makes me feel good.

You can make an impact by literally doing anything. Even if you only have time to help once a month or can only give a few dollars, what you do can impact multiple patients, employees and the communities the Hospital serves. By working together, we can achieve so much more.

What does philanthropy mean to you?

To me, philanthropy means responsibility. Whether I’m helping at Phelps Health or doing other work in the community, I believe that philanthropy is about leaving things better and getting involved. I try to find any way to make a positive impact and encourage others to do the same.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering supporting Phelps Health?

My advice would be to reach out to Phelps Health and find out how you can get involved. In my experience with Phelps Health, Crystal always has a spot for you to volunteer. Marsha Wayman, the director of philanthropy for the Phelps Health Foundation, also is always looking for individuals who want to make a positive impact. Every little bit can make a difference. So, take the first step and see how you can positively impact your community.