(Over the next several weeks, the blog will feature IHA’s 2011 Iowa Hospital Heroes.  These outstanding hospital employees come from across the state and work at hospitals of every size.  They exemplify the courage, caring and community focus that are at the center of the hospital mission in Iowa.)

Dianne Alber, a psychologist at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, exemplifies the definition of a Hospital Hero. She reaches out to those in need when they need her most, often going above and beyond for her patients and never expecting reward or recognition. Dianne has been a staple at Iowa Methodist for more than 20 years and has worked to help counsel those with substance abuse, eating disorders and currently patients in the transplant and oncology departments. 

Dianne gives her time, talent and expertise every day to better the Iowa Methodist organization, her patients and her community. Dianne does all this when she drops everything to be with a patient at a moment’s notice and when she speaks to support groups.  She volunteers at cancer screenings and has donated her vacation time to a patient’s daughter.  When a wedding was scheduled on the inpatient unit, she made the bridal bouquet.  She visits patients in their homes for dinner so they don’t have to eat alone, brings patients things from home and cares for patients’ animals when they are hospitalized.  Behind the scenes, she assists nursing personnel to find meaning and peace in their jobs and she helps both patients and colleagues get through difficult conversations. 

Dianne is always willing to help and when she is thanked for her kindness, timeliness and compassion, she simply responds, “It’s my job.” Dianne is an integral part of the mission at Iowa Methodist Medical Center and the John Stoddard Cancer Center. Patients and staff benefit greatly from her support and professional excellence, the impact of which is immeasurable. 

Coworkers say it is an honor to work with Dianne because her extra effort comes from the heart and because it isn’t just a job to her; she truly cares. For all of that and so much more, she is a true Hospital Hero!