Aspirus Painted Rock Project Spreads Kindness from Wisconsin Rapids to Kansas

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. - What began as a family hobby for an Aspirus employee grew into a community-wide act of kindness that touched coworkers, local residents, and a young cancer patient hundreds of miles away.

For years, Amy Ortner, an Ultrasound Technologist with Aspirus, has participated in the local Rockin' in Rapids Facebook community, painting and hiding rocks for others to find. Inspired by a painted rock snake she saw online, Ortner brought the idea to work, creating "Vicky Viper," a snake made up of individually painted rocks contributed by employees and visitors.

The project quickly became a bright spot for the local community and other staff, who looked forward to seeing new additions each day. Painted rocks featuring artwork, encouraging messages, and creative designs helped transform a simple display into a source of connection and positivity.

"Sometimes you just need a little pick-me-up," Ortner said. "Those painted rocks can do that. They can be an unexpected surprise that makes you smile."

By the end of the project, Vicky Viper had grown to an impressive 403 rocks, thanks to contributions from team members across the organization.

Wanting to extend the project's impact beyond the hospital, Ortner sent 105 rocks, weighing approximately 33 pounds, to six-year-old Maddie in Kansas after learning about the young girl's cancer journey and her family's painted rock garden. The remaining rocks were hidden throughout the Wisconsin Rapids area near schools, daycare centers, grocery stores, the post office, and other community locations for residents to discover.

According to Kelly Kremer, Manager of Imaging Services, Ortner's dedication and compassion were key to the project's success.

"Amy has a heart of gold and truly loves this community," Kremer said. "She's dedicated and gets the job done, no matter what it is."

The project nearly ended after its first year as rocks frequently disappeared, but encouragement from the Ultrasound Department inspired Ortner to try again. Their support helped turn Vicky Viper into a growing tradition that brought joy to employees and community members alike.

For Ortner, the project was about more than painted rocks. It was an opportunity to create simple moments of kindness and connection.

Thanks to 403 colorful creations, one employee's idea brightened a workplace, spread smiles throughout the community, and brought encouragement to a young girl during a difficult time.

For more information about Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital, click here.