Name: Bethany Metzroth
When did you start working with the JMF? Children’s National started working with the Jeffrey Modell Foundation in 2014. One of our social workers in our Blood and Marrow Transplantation Unit was worried about how we were going to support the basic needs of a family under our care. She heard great things about the Roots & Wings program so she reached out to Vicki. Our social worker was amazed by the generosity, kindness, and responsiveness of the Jeffrey Modell Foundation. A couple months later I had the pleasure of meeting several members of the foundation. I’ve grown to love each and every one of them. When we visit with Vicki, Fred, and Vanessa it feels like we’re with family – we’re bound by a passion and commitment to the most important mission of all – children’s health!
Profession and Location: Development, Children’s National Health System, Washington, DC
What inspires you? The patients and families we care for inspire me! Kids are so resilient and brave, and their parents are the greatest advocates. They become experts in a disease that was once foreign to them and somehow remain positive in the wake of heartbreaking news. Their determination and love for one another inspire me, as does the clinical team and researchers who are constantly searching for better treatments.
What aspect of JMF do you find most special? Jeffrey Modell Foundation is unique in that it is committed to all aspects of the primary immunodeficiency community – supporting efforts in advocacy, education, research, patient care and support services. JMF recognizes that when a child is sick it affects so many things and the foundation is committed to every child with the disease.
What’s your favorite JMF memory? I love sitting around the Jeffrey Modell Foundation conference room and sharing stories with the team. Vicki and Fred remember every child, every family, and every researcher they’ve met. Their stories inspire our team to do more! I love our time together.
Favorite Quote: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world” – Mahatma Gandhi
Share a little bit about yourself with the JMF community! I have worked at Children’s National for over 6 years now. Before joining Children’s National as an employee I was a patient care volunteer. The hospital feels like home to me. I grew up in Washington, DC and visited the hospital many times as a young child as my dad works there as a cardiologist. Whenever I am there I am reminded of how fortunate I am. That is why I am devoted to improving the lives of the children we treat.