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Darence “D.L.” Brooks
Tulsa, OK

I never felt close to upper management until I had major surgery while at Whirlpool.

I have worked for several different companies since the age of 13.  I have always tried to have a positive and friendly coworker relationship. But until I had major surgery, in 2009, I never felt a close friendship with upper management.

While still in the hospital following that surgery, I was first visited by my department head, who personally brought flowers from the company. And then, I was also visited by our division head. Was I ever impressed and honored.

Those visits led me to be a better and friendlier worker at Tulsa Whirlpool. I try every day to greet all coworkers with a smile and friendly greeting. No matter what happens later in my career, I will always feel special because of Mr. John Hartwig and Mr. Jim Gifford, my bosses and my friends.

Their acts of kindness gave me a more positive outlook on my job and life.  I now, more than ever, feel like I’m part of a bigger family. I want others to feel it too.

I’ve learned not to be afraid or reluctant to encourage others, and to always offer a friendly hand to all of my fellow personnel at Tulsa, Whirlpool, whether they’re on the production floor or in the office.