Inspiration comes in many forms, from a good book to our natural world to our friends and family. But as Mike Lindner knows, a personal, life-changing experience may be the most powerful source of inspiration.

Lindner, a respiratory therapist at Divine Savior Healthcare in Portage, saw first-hand how a career can make a real difference in other's lives when his prematurely born son needed special care through respiratory therapy.

"In those first months, I was able to see what a vast impact respiratory therapists make," Lindner said. "Now I am proud to be a part of this profession, and it's a great feeling every day to make a difference in people's lives.

"Today it is my privilege to know my son, who just turned 18 a couple months ago."

(L-R) Divine Savior Healthcare's Mike Lindner, respiratory therapist, and Lynn Waldera, director of Cardiopulmonary Services, at the WHA's 2007 Wisconsin Health Care Employee Pride Program recognition dinner.

Lindner joined 68 other hospital employees from across the state that were honored at the 2007 Wisconsin Health Care Employee Pride Program recognition dinner at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

The program, sponsored by the Wisconsin Hospital Association (WHA), is designed to celebrate the health care workforce and recognize their "truly amazing" contributions to the health of their communities, according to WHA President Steve Brenton.

"People who work in hospitals are among Wisconsin's most dedicated and valuable employees.  It takes special people to care for others and our communities are richer, safer, and healthier places to live because of these professionals," Brenton added. "Whether they are on the front lines, or supporting those who deliver patient care, every health care employee helps improve the health status in the community where they live and work."

Employees were asked to describe what led them to choose an occupation in health, and why they decided to work in a hospital. Hundreds of health care employees submitted essays. A committee at each health care facility selected the winning essay, and that person was honored at the recognition banquet on April 26.

The recognition program is co-sponsored by the Wisconsin Society of Healthcare Human Resources Administration, the Wisconsin Organization of Nurse Executives, and the Wisconsin Healthcare Public Relations and Marketing Society.