by Rich Godby, MD, PGY-3
When asked to pick someone to interview for the Hospital Employee Spotlight, it was a no-brainer. Since starting my internal medicine residency in the summer of 2017, I’ve wanted to know more about “the person who drives the golf cart.” At first I didn’t know her name (Minnie), so some detective work was needed up front. This struck me, because over the past 2.5 years I’ve met countless individuals who are the best in their fields and have influenced me as a physician. However, I feel as though Minnie has influenced me as well without us ever speaking, and she doesn’t even know it.
This is a wonderful illustration of how we all influence each other on a daily basis through our silent actions – by simply working in proximity and having commonality in serving those in need, including one another. Watching her in action and the joy she brings patients makes those long, early walks in to the wards a little easier for all of us. After meeting her for the first time, I’m happy to now call her a friend, and I hope that we all realize how many unknown friends we’ve made through the infectious power of taking joy in our work.
Q: How long have you been at UAB?
Minnie has been at UAB for over 30 years. She has worked in various roles, including working at the switchboard (now UAB Connect) and in scheduling. Basically, she knows everyone and everything at UAB.
Q: How long have you been driving the golf cart?
Minnie has been driving the golf cart for four years, after coming out of retirement because she missed helping others. She then went on to realize that the golf cart was a great position for this, stating, “I get such fulfillment out of this job.” She is the first person to hold the job permanently. Previously, drivers were temporary and typically drove the cart for about six months at a time.
Q: Any special training/licenses required? How many carts are there?
No special licenses or training are required, other than an Alabama driver’s license. There are two identical carts – no racing has yet to take place, primarily because nobody is willing to challenge Minnie.
Q: How do you decide who needs a ride?
“I look for sticks, canes, and walkers. I’m open to anyone who asks as long as there isn’t someone in need who’s waiting.” She gets in at 05:00 AM every day, especially on the lookout for those who need surgery and have a difficult time ambulating.
Q: Where can you go? Where can’t you go that you’d like to go?
Minnie can go to various places on the second floor – the Fourth Avenue sky lobby, WIC, PCCU, Spain Rehab, and more. However, the current cart does not go to Jefferson Tower, Kirklin Clinic, or on the elevators. She is currently brainstorming different ideas in order to broaden her outreach – different carts, special tunnels/routes, coordinating with others within Guest Services for pickups/handoffs, etc.
Q: Most memorable passenger?
“All of my guests are memorable.” She goes on to discuss patients who’ve noticed better vital signs at their visits when she drives them versus when they have to walk, and they tell her how calming it is to talk with a friend before an anxiety-provoking appointment. She also recalls a passenger who is afraid of car rides, so Minnie helps out by letting this individual just sit on the cart and talk with her – “the cart helps people, even if there isn’t a ride involved.”
Q: How do you feel about puppy passengers/co-pilots?
Minnie thoroughly enjoys when therapy dogs take a ride, noting how happy they make everyone who interacts with them (including the residents). She recalled an old friend named Booster, a golden retriever with Hand-in-Paw, who recognized her and would start wagging his tail then jump in the cart near Starbucks for some attention whenever she pulled up.
Q: Has there ever been a traffic accident?
“Not on my watch.” However, Minnie notes that it takes practice to achieve her current level of expertise, letting me know that the first few days on the job, she let one or two corners know who was boss.
Q: How fast does the cart go?
“We won’t discuss that.” Conveniently, the golf cart does not come with a speedometer, and I can’t find any records of a speeding ticket.
Q: Does the cart have a radio?
“Not yet.”
Q: The Christmas decorations on the golf cart are very popular - any plans for more decorations at different times throughout the year?
Not at this time, because “it's a special time of year.” She describes how some patients are in the hospital for prolonged periods of time and they, as well as their families, don’t get to experience all the festivities. She finds so much joy in turning on the lights to full speed and spreading cheer!
Q: Favorite nickname/catchphrase (eg, Minnie Mobile, Minnie Van)?
“Minnie’s Cooper.” However, during the interview, multiple friends stopped by to let me know about another nickname – “The Queen of Transport.”
Q: Open to a “Minnie Series”? (à la Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee)?
Laughing: “Let me think about that one.” If you see her around, make sure to let her know how much you’d enjoy this and feel free to offer suggestions for guests!
Q: What’s one thing you want everyone to know about what you do?
“I try to help as much as I can…and it’s really easy to help others. I’ll help you however I can, that’s why I’m here.”