A Family Legacy of Caring

At Saint Mary’s Regional Health System, compassion is part of the culture. For ER nurse Cortney Watson and her grandfather Walt Perks, it’s also a family tradition.

While Cortney spends her days caring for patients in the fast‑paced emergency department, her grandfather Walt is already there lending his support. His volunteer shift starts at 5:30 a.m., when he walks through the ER preparing the space for a new day—restocking rooms, warming blankets, filling the refrigerator, brewing coffee and making sure the team has everything they need.

“I’m probably the volunteer here with the least amount of experience,” Walt admits with a grin, “but I’m proud to be part of such a dedicated group. When Cortney mentioned the ER needed help, I decided it was time to jump in.”

For Walt, volunteering isn’t just about the tasks—it’s about feeling useful and being surrounded by skilled professionals who care deeply for the community he calls home. “These people are incredibly important to the well‑being of Russellville and the surrounding area,” he says. “Being around them gives me a sense of purpose.”

But there’s something even more meaningful woven into his mornings: he gets to serve alongside his granddaughter.

Walt has been by Cortney’s side through many phases of life—coaching her travel softball teams, cheering her through high school sports and watching her push through long nights of studying in nursing school. She lived with her grandparents during much of her time at ATU, giving them a front‑row seat to her grit, her heart and the passion she poured into becoming a nurse.

Now, he sees that effort in action every day.

“My perspective is different now,” he says. “I’m watching her function as a capable adult, working with an outstanding team and providing top‑notch care. If I ever need help in an emergency, I feel good knowing she and this team are here for me. Her grandma would be very proud too.”

Cortney feels that same sense of pride each time she sees him bustling through the department.

“It’s really special,” she says. “No matter how busy it gets, seeing my Grandpap here keeps me grounded.” Even after being a patient in the ER two years ago, Walt chose to return as a volunteer—something that means the world to her. “Even on the busiest days, he’s right there bringing warm blankets, coffee and making sure we have what we need to care for patients.”

Their paths cross often—Walt delivering labs, checking on staff, chatting with nurses, techs, paramedics and providers. “Everyone knows him,” Cortney laughs. “Whether they call him Walt or Grandpap, the staff treats him like family.”

To both of them, that sense of family is exactly what makes Saint Mary’s special.

“Serving the same hospital and community side by side means everything to us,” Cortney says. “The ER is like a big family. Being part of that team together makes it even more meaningful.”

They hope the community knows just how deeply the people at Saint Mary’s care—how volunteers and staff alike look out for one another and for every person who walks through the door.

Because for Cortney and Walt, giving back isn’t just about service. It’s about connection, legacy, and the joy of caring for others—together.

Cortney and Walt’s story is just one example of the compassion that fills the halls of Saint Mary’s every day. Our volunteers play a meaningful role in supporting patients, families and staff.

If their story inspires you and you’d like to make a difference in the same way, we’d love to welcome you to our volunteer team. To learn more about how you can get involved, visit SaintMarysRegional.com/volunteer.