It would be difficult to overstate the importance of the role doctors play in our lives. From ongoing support and guidance to specialized care following a frightening diagnosis to a timely response in a crisis, doctors and other caregivers are essential to our well-being. In turn, we tend to view these health professionals with a deep sense of trust and appreciation.

Each year since 1933, a national celebration known as Doctors' Day, held on March 30, has recognized the impact of physicians on the health of our nation as well as communities and individuals. The day also gives grateful patients a special opportunity to express thanks.

Spartanburg Regional Foundation provides a vehicle for donations that support health care while honoring a beloved caregiver.

Gifts to Regional Foundation support a wide variety of services and programs that address the needs of patients and promote the health of the community. These include funds that provide assistance for patients in financial need, promote clinical innovation and staff education, and support screening and early detection of serious illnesses.

Jason Rousseau, DO, has been honored on Doctors Day in the past, and he says it's gratifying to know that patients are appreciative. “It's very humbling that they would take their time and generously donate to help other people in the community,” he said.

Dr. Rousseau, a cardiothoracic surgeon, said he knew from a young age that he wanted to work with heart patients.  His grandfather died of heart disease, and Rousseau wanted to help others fighting the disease.

He believes the bond between patient and caregiver is extremely important, and his approach is “very simple.” He said, “I just want to treat them the way I would want to be treated. I have to take into account the element of fear of the unknown, so I try very hard to earn my patients' trust.”

Caregivers honored with a Doctors' Day gift receive a card from Spartanburg Regional Foundation acknowledging the donation on their behalf. The gift amount remains confidential.

Like the patients who have given in their honor, Dr. Rousseau is a donor to Regional Foundation. Dr. Rousseau is a member of the Foundation's Heart Division.

Doctors' Day was created by Eudora Brown Almond, whose husband was a physician in Georgia. It was made an official day of observance when President George H.W. Bush signed a resolution into law in 1991.

For more information or to make a Doctors' Day donation, visit https://www.regionalfoundation.com/ways-give/honor-caregiver.