Enter The Kirklin Clinic (TKC) through the first-floor lobby or second-floor crosswalk entrances and you will receive a warm greeting from one of its two doormen, Anthony Orum or Finus “Buster” Lilly.

Anthony Orum, right, and Finus “Buster” Lilly always are ready to lend a helping hand to visitors at The Kirklin Clinic.

Orum, posted at the second-floor entrance, was the first doorman at TKC. He began his duties in June 1992, when the clinic first opened for business. He recently returned to TKC to reprise his role after being away several years.

“When the clinic first opened, there was so much enthusiasm and pride among the employees,” says Orum. “We were trying to be on the level of the Mayo or Cleveland Clinic.”

Orum notes his good attitude and observation skills are put to good use in his position.

“Because of my love for people, it is natural for me to enjoy being a doorman,” he says. “I can look at a person and determine if they need a pat on the back or a word of encouragement. I get great joy making sure people are happy. My job and responsibility is to be positive at all times, present a good first impression for the clinic and ensure we successfully meet our visitors’ needs from the beginning to the end of their visits.”

Lilly, who began serving as a TKC doorman in 1996, enjoys meeting and talking to people.

“I have gotten to know many patients and their families because they have been coming to The Kirklin Clinic the entire time I have worked here,” he says.

Lilly, who greets patients at the first-floor main entrance, receives numerous requests for directions.

“Because of the circular driveway in the front of the clinic, many people drive in with all sorts of requests,” he says. “Not only have I given directions to other buildings on campus, but also to the mall, buildings on the north side of town or the movie theaters. Patients’ family members often are looking for interesting things to do instead of waiting at the clinic during treatment. Once, I even provided assistance to some people from out of town who mistakenly believed The Kirklin Clinic was the civic center.”

Orum and Lilly greet and open doors, give directions, hail taxicabs or wheelchairs — anything needed to facilitate the arrival and departure of the more than 8,000 visitors weekly.

TKC Guest Services Manager Sharon M. Beal-Fowler says the two are a tremendous asset to the department.

“Buster and Anthony are able to create a welcoming environment and assess patients as they leave to ensure they had a positive experience at The Kirklin Clinic,” she says. “Should an opportunity to improve care present itself they are very comfortable providing appropriate resolutions. They are team players, show initiative and are a priceless resource to Guest Relations.”