Patricia Sharpe donated dozens of red hats to be given to babies delivered at South Georgia Medical Center’s Birthplace. Her "red hat project" is a personal story about gratefulness and spreading joy during American Heart Month.

Fifteen years ago, Sharpe delivered her first child at the Birthplace. Born at 27 weeks, the 3 month premature baby only weighed 2 lbs and 3 oz. The infant was transported to UF Shand’s Hospital for 14 days and then returned to SGMC. “Once returning to SGMC’s Nursery, the nursing staff was phenomenal,” stated Sharpe.

Sharpe recalled an instance when nursing went over and beyond. “There were a couple of times after my baby was released from SGMC that one of the nurses volunteered to come to my home and watch my infant so I could meet a deadline at work.” Sharpe’s experience stuck with her and led to the creation of her red hat project.  

“We’re always grateful when our patients are touched by the compassion of SGMC team members,” stated Elizabeth Vickers, SGMC Foundation Executive Director.

According to Sharpe, the red hats are a way for her to give back to the SGMC Nursery and hopefully provide a keepsake for mothers delivering at the Birthplace.