Wellstar Paulding Medical Center is the first hospital in North America to join the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. Adopted by the hospital’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB) Council, the initiative aims to help people who have disabilities that are not immediately obvious, such as visual or hearing impairments, autism, chronic pain, dementia or anxiety.

Rev. Dr. Rhonda James-Jones, manager of Spiritual Health at Wellstar Paulding Medial Center & Nursing Rehabilitation Center said:

“We want to foster a sense of belonging and respect for every patient, family member and team member. Paired with education and other care initiatives, the Sunflower will enable every member of our team to provide the highest quality, most personal care for patients with invisible disabilities.” 


At the hospital, the official Hidden Disabilities Sunflower logo is placed on the door of a patient with a disability. The Sunflower symbol discreetly indicates to patient-facing team members that the wearer needs additional support or a little more time when a diagnosis or procedure is explained. 

Tricia Everitte, a Wellstar registered respiratory therapist and Sunflower program initiative lead said:

“The Sunflower will help us in our efforts to honor every voice at Wellstar. Several nurses and other team members have shared that they have people with hidden disabilities in their lives and are proud to work at a hospital that will go the extra mile to meet their needs.”

Everitte introduced the effort to the hospital because she cares for people with hidden disabilities both professionally and personally.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower has been adopted globally across all public sectors including major airports, supermarkets, entertainment and sports venues, government programs, public safety services and an increasing number of businesses, large and small.

Paul White, CEO, The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower said:

“Our aim is to help make the invisible, visible. We’re thrilled to welcome Wellstar Paulding Medical Center to the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network. As the first hospital in North America to join the Sunflower, we champion and share their drive to support people with non-visible disabilities within the healthcare sector.”  


The Sunflower is another layer of support as the team at Wellstar Paulding seeks to provide high-quality healthcare to every person, every time. Patients at Wellstar Paulding also have access to whole person-centered care provided by clinically trained chaplains and pet therapists, as well as through technology such as adaptive phones and interpretation services.

For more information about the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower at Wellstar Paulding Hospital click here