Finding Joy in the Smallest Moments: How One Thoughtful Act Brightened Port Perry Hospital

Joy is one of the values that guides care at Lakeridge Health – but its true meaning is found in the everyday actions of the staff, physicians, and volunteers. At the Port Perry Hospital, Service Associate, Ruth, brought that value to life in a simple yet meaningful way. 

As part of the Environmental Services team, Ruth sees firsthand how important it is for patients and their families to feel a sense of calm and connection during their time in hospital.  

“I see patients and families going through a lot,” Ruth shares. “Sometimes it’s the little things that can make a meaningful difference and help take your mind somewhere else, even for a few minutes.” 

With that in mind, Ruth found her own way to make a difference. Without being asked, and without seeking recognition, she purchased bird feeders for the hospital grounds. Her intention was heartfelt: to create small moments of happiness for those who might need it most. 

“I just thought it might be nice for people to have something peaceful to look at,” she says. “Birds have a way of making you slow down and smile.” 

It didn’t take long for those feeders to make an impact. 

Patients, families, and team members began noticing the birds gathering outside windows and in shared spaces. What started as a quiet gesture soon became a source of joy and conversation – something uplifting to focus on during difficult days. For some, it offered a peaceful distraction. For others, a moment of connection with loved ones. For many, it simply brought a smile. 

“It’s nice to think it could bring a smile to someone who needs it,” Ruth reflects. 

Over time, Ruth’s idea has grown beyond the hospital walls. Patients and members of the Port Perry community now help keep the feeders filled by purchasing bird seed through Port Perry Feeds, where it’s set aside for Ruth to pick up and bring back to the hospital. What began as one person’s thoughtful gesture has become a shared effort – spreading Joy in a way that connects the hospital and the community it serves. 

For Melissa Pena, Manager of Environmental Services, Ruth’s actions are a powerful reflection of the team’s impact. 

“Ruth’s initiative is a beautiful example of how our team members go above and beyond in ways that truly matter,” Melissa says. “She saw an opportunity to brighten the experience for patients and families, and she acted on it with kindness and compassion.” 

Melissa adds that moments like these reinforce how every role contributes to the patient experience. 

“In Environmental Services, our work is often behind the scenes, but it’s essential,” she explains. “Ruth’s efforts show that living our values isn’t defined by job title – it’s reflected in the care, intention, and humanity each person brings to their work.” 

Because of people like Ruth, Lakeridge Health continues to be a place where kindness is felt, humanity is visible, and Joy is not just something we talk about – but something we truly live.