MARY LOU RETTON

For the first thirteen years of my career, I worked in a hospital as a medical social worker.  I was assigned to the Emergency Room, but also saw patients who were admitted up on the floors.  Now and then, when I am talking with someone on the telephone, they will hear my name as Mary Lou Retton.  I also correct them with a bit of humor, typically saying, “I don’t do back flips”.  Then sometimes adding, “If I did a back flip, you would be calling 911”.   

 

The first experience of this happening was not long after I started my work in the hospital.  I met an elderly woman who was admitted to the hospital.  After talking with her for a short while, I felt she would benefit from a Meals on Wheels referral.   She was doing quite well at home and didn’t need much more than that. 

 

Two months later, she returned to the hospital suffering from pneumonia.  I received another referral for her and went up to meet her again.  It was during this visit when I first experienced a patient mistaking my name for the gymnast.  Every now and then I will share this story with a patient or family member who asks me what my name is.   

 

I have always felt that at least my name is close to someone talented with a positive reputation. It makes me wonder how those with names similar to serial killers, or other persons famous for all the wrong reasons, handle things.   

 

I know it will probably happen again.  And again, I will grab it and laugh about it.  Thank you, Mary Lou Retton.  

MARY LOU RETTON 

  

My name is similar to the Olympian; 

gold medal gymnast Mary Lou Retton. 

Now and then that is what folks hear; 

         especially over the telephone. 

 

I met him about six weeks ago. 

He wanted to hear what hospice was all about. 

I gave him information about our program 

leaving literature, as well, for him to read. 

 

He asked me about my name. 

I said he will never forget it 

as it is close to the Olympic gymnast. 

Then added, while laughing,  

         “I don’t do back flips.” 

 

He was admitted to the hospital yesterday. 

They told him it is now time for hospice. 

He told the medical staff to contact Yolo Hospice 

as Mary Lou Retton really helped him. 

 

Years ago, I met a patient in the hospital. 

I didn’t do a whole lot more than 

refer her to “Meals on Wheels”. 

Two months later she was back. 

 

“I don’t know if you remember me. 

I am Marilou Rennie.  I met you before.” 

I have never forgotten her answer back to me. 

“You totally changed my life. 

         I love your gymnastics!”