Who: Alison Steinheimer, food service assistant at WellSpan York Hospital. 

What: Compassion takes many forms – and for Alison, it often comes in the shape of a simple utensil bag.

Serving patients on the Behavioral Health unit, Alison goes above and beyond her daily responsibilities to create moments of joy and comfort. With genuine care and creativity, she adds hand-drawn pictures and light-hearted jokes to the utensil bags that accompany patients’ meals. These small but thoughtful touches have become something both patients and team members look forward to each day.

Whether it’s a cheerful sketch or a pun that sparks a laugh, Alison’s efforts send a powerful message: you are seen, you are valued and you are not alone.

“I just want to try to make everyone’s day a little better in any way I can,” Alison said.

Words to live by: “Sometimes, it’s the little things – a doodle, a joke, a smile – that remind someone they’re not alone. If a utensil bag can bring a bit of joy, then I’ve done something right,” Alison said.

Her creativity not only brings a smile to patients’ faces but also lifts the spirits of the entire care team.

It’s a beautiful reminder that healing isn’t only about medicine – it’s about connection, kindness and the little things that brighten someone’s day.