Two dozen pizzas at center of random act of kindness at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital

For most people, birthdays are a time when a little extra self-interest is excusable, and the spotlight is expected. But for Mike Wright, a transporter at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, his birthday was a time to celebrate and treat others.

In December 2021, after being recognized by Mercy Fitzgerald’s “High-Five” program, Mike was inspired to pay the act forward. The High-Five program allows Mercy Fitzgerald employees to recognize and reward each other for displays of extraordinary service, teamwork and kindness.

“When Mike saw his name on the High-Five, it opened up his heart and made him feel gratitude for the people he works with,” said Ra’Son Alexander, director of Environmental Services at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, and Mike’s supervisor. “It was out of the kindness of his heart that he decided to show his appreciation for others. He wasn’t looking for anything in return, he just wanted to give back.”

On December 17—his birthday, with the High-Five recognition fresh in his mind, Mike decided to mark the occasion by giving his colleagues a free lunch. He ordered the delivery of 24 pizzas, which were distributed to numerous departments at Mercy Fitzgerald, including nursing, MRI/CAT scan, interventional radiology, transport, dialysis and the Emergency Room. The pizza was enjoyed by “too many employees to count,” according to Alexander.

“This generous, random act of kindness is emblematic of the culture we are working to build here at Mercy Fitzgerald,” said Chris Cullom, president of Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital. “It’s a culture of giving, support and selflessness, and I am proud to have colleagues like Mike who bring that culture to life.”

Mike’s colleagues appreciated his generosity as well. Undoubtedly, the act will inspire others to continue paying it forward—perhaps with another pizza party in the future.