This week, I find myself reflecting on two words: thank you.

First, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who went above and beyond during last week’s snowstorm. Your teamwork carried us through a challenging week. From those who arrived early to ensure seamless patient care, to those who stayed overnight and worked extended hours, your dedication was nothing short of remarkable. From clinical staff providing warmth, to facilities treating our icy walkways, to food and nutrition ensuring patients and staff were fed, and our physicians staying on campus around the clock - your commitment to our patients and each other truly embodies the spirit of compassion and excellence that defines Houston Methodist Sugar Land.

Now I want to turn our attention to someone whose contributions to our hospital have been nothing short of extraordinary. For 24 years, our Chief Nursing Officer Janet Leatherwood has been a guiding light to our nursing team. Her leadership has shaped not only the careers of countless nurses but also the care we provide to our patients every single day. This is her last week before retirement. It’s hard to imagine our hospital without her energy and the positivity she brings to this place. I know her presence on campus will be deeply missed.

Tomorrow, there will be a come-and-go reception for Janet for the entire staff. It will be held in the Brazos Conference Center from 3-5 p.m.  I encourage you all to come down and take a moment to thank Janet for her incredible legacy she leaves behind.

Somebody asked me the other day about Janet’s legacy – and for me that legacy is one of caring deeply and leading boldly.  

Let’s honor Janet by continuing to care for one another and for our patients with the same dedication she has shown every day of her incredible career.

Have a great week,

Michael Garcia
Chief Executive Officer
Houston Methodist Sugar Land

Attend Dr. Boom's Virtual Town Hall

Join Dr. Marc Boom, president and CEO of Houston Methodist, as he delivers the State of the System address during a live virtual town hall from noon – 1 p.m. Monday, January 27. Dr. Boom will highlight last year’s successes and this year’s plans. Click here to watch the livestream and add it to your calendars via this link from The HUB. You can submit your questions live or email them ahead of time by clicking here. Dr. Boom will answer as many questions as possible. If you can’t attend the event live, a recording will be available later. 

Celebrating Janet Leatherwood

Tuesday is the day! HMSL is preparing to celebrate our CNO, Janet Leatherwood. After 24 years at HMSL, Janet is retiring at the end of this month. Join us this Tuesday, January 28 for a come-and-go reception in the Brazos Conference Center. Stop by any time between 3-5 p.m. to wish Janet all the best in retirement.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s passion for service, HMSL is hosting a book and school supply drive, benefitting our community. The drive runs through Wednesday, January 29. Bins will be placed at five locations around campus:

• MOB4
• Brazos Conference Rooms
• Near Sweetwater Registration Desk
• Main building, 2nd Floor across from surgery check-in
• Ortho Building Main Entrance

Best Places to Work 2025

For the fourth consecutive year, our hospital system was recognized in Glassdoor's Best Places to Work list for 2025, which features top employers across a national range of industries. Houston Methodist ranked No. 18. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their experiences working here. View the complete list of winners here.

HMSL Bracelet Challenge

Build community with coworkers across the hospital by joining the HMSL Bracelet Challenge! As a unit or department, decide on one word, phrase or slogan to put on a friendship bracelet. Make as many as you want and trade them with as many departments as possible.  

Honor a Nurse who has made a Difference

Nominations for Houston Chronicle’s Salute to Nurses 2025 are now open. Our city’s Top 200 nurses will be honored, so please spread the word about nominating our excellent Houston Methodist nurses. Please take some time to think about the best nurses you know at Houston Methodist and nominate them for this prestigious award. The deadline to nominate a nurse is Friday, February 28. Nominate a nurse here. You can also nominate a nursing student for a scholarship.

HMSL Blood Drive

Be a perfect match and give blood. The next HMSL blood drive will be Friday, February 14 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Brazos Rooms BC. Eligible donors will receive a Houston Texans t-shirt, while supplies last. You can also earn one hour credit toward your Paid Time Off (PTO awarded in four-hour increments within a calendar year). To register, click here.