White Memorial team rallies around Sharon Hartwell

Sharon Hartwell has dedicated herself to serving others. She is the parent of a Special Olympic athlete, a coach, a volunteer and team nurse. She has taught countless individuals life saving skills as an educator at IU Health White Memorial. She has taught teenagers how to be the best babysitter possible.

Hartwell has been a certified child passenger safety technician since September 1998. She provides child passenger safety services to patients and families at IU Health White Memorial Hospital as well as to families throughout White County. She has worked with local law enforcement and fire departments on the proper transportation of children. She has been known to purchase car seats with her own money when monetary contributions are depleted.

Like so many dedicated individuals, Hartwell has many stories to share; least of all her own. In May, Hartwell was diagnosed with Pancreatic, Liver, Lung and Gallbladder Duct Cancer. She immediately had a port placed and started chemo. Her “day” job took a back seat. She needed PTO time to cover her paycheck until her short team disability kicked in. Within 4 -5 hours her work team donated the 240 hours needed.

Team members from EVS took Hartwell “to the ocean” during one of her oncology treatments. They brought in sand and made beautiful cocktails with fruit (without alcohol of course).

Team members from surgery took soup to her house and discovered there were no steps and handrails to get into her house. Soon a collection was started for the deck. Enough money was gathered to cover the entire deck supplies. There was even enough money left over to help with the purchase of glucometer supplies and protein shakes. A couple of team members with family in tow started the deck on Friday morning and finished it around noon on Sunday.

It is hard to determine how many lives have been saved and injuries prevented thanks to Hartwell’s lifelong dedication. Now her team is rallying to save hers.