Piedmont Henry Hospital and Belk recently partnered with Henry County Schools to provide breast cancer survivor bags to district employees who were able to overcome their battle with the well-known illness and those currently battling the disease. The two local business partners donated 100% of the items to honor local education employees who provide so much to our youth and our county’s future, and also took on one of their toughest challenges – beating breast cancer.

  Dr. Ethan Hildreth, a member of the “Real Men Wear Pink” campaign for Piedmont Henry Hospital, helped to distribute the 53 donated bags across the district. Principals and department heads were asked to send in names of staff and faculty members they knew had beat the disease or were combating it now. Each bag contained a special message from Superintendent Hildreth and various items from the area hospital and local department store.

  “We are thankful for the thoughtfulness of our business partners that helped us recognize our courageous team members who have triumphed over adversity,” said Hildreth. “I am proud to be a part of such a caring and supportive community.”

  Sylvia Burch, a member of the Administrative Services Depart-ment team for Henry County Schools, helped coordinate the donation and distribution of the bags. She knows the recipients appreciate the support and recognition they receive through their battles and triumphs.

  “By supporting our employees who have or are currently battling breast cancer, our system is sending the message to these employees that they are not facing the journey alone,” said Burch. “Their work family is there for them as they go through this battle. This is what Henry County Schools is about – not just ensuring the success of every student but also ensuring the success of each employee.”