Dhanpat has only one name and no one ever forgets it. "Dhan" as he's called, is Lutheran Medical Center's celebrity Patient Care Technician. 
In 2006 he was featured in the Daily News as one of "New York's 50 Unsung Heroes." More recently Dhan appeared on "The Art of Living," a television show that showcases people over 60 doing great things.
A native of British Guyana Dhan has been a New Yorker since 1984. Dhan worked as a World Trade Center security guard until 1996 when he was laid off. That same year he came to Lutheran, joining the staff as a support associate volunteer. He was in charge of everything from patient transporting to dietary function. As a volunteer he worked all over the hospital and attracted the attention of Nursing Manager, Linda Rogando. She recognized Dhan's natural abilities, and recommended him for promotion to Patient Care Technician.
Over the past ten years he has received more than 500 thank-you letters from Lutheran Medical Center patients.
A lot of people are afraid of going to the hospital. That's why Dhan emphasizes the importance of making everyone feel comfortable and alleviating any patient fears or concerns. "I try to imagine myself in the patients shoes, and I think about how I'd like to be treated," says Dhan.
As a patient care technician he works with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professional to provide direct patient care. Patient care technicians are an important factor in patient recovery, because their close contact with the patient allows them to monitor developing signs of distress.
His hundreds of thank-you letters are a testament to the special rapport he builds with the patients and families that come to Lutheran. Dhan's dedication and compassion earned him the hospital's Presidential Award in 2005. He whistles through the halls, Dhan's known for being readily available to lend a hand and tackle any task. The nursing education department uses him to train new nurses and technicians in trapeze and traction. Describing him as an expert in those fields.
Dhan and his wife live in Bay Ridge. He has one daughter, and two Grandchildren, both of whom are college students. His granddaughter is studying to be an actuary, and works part-time at LMC as a clerk in the intensive care unit.
To find out about Lutheran HealthCare's volunteer opportunities call the Volunteer office at 718-630-7296.
