Jennifer Novak has always exemplified the most compassionate care for all her patients. She is a great team player and will always go above and beyond for anyone, even without being asked. However, what really sets Jennifer apart from the other nurses is that her compassion and care for patients goes well beyond the walls of our hospital.

Recently, Jennifer received a knock on her door from her next door neighbor asking for assistance in walking in her husband, who was extremely weak. Jennifer went over to assist, like most of us would do as good neighbors. What ensued next was nothing short of extraordinary care, and more than just an act of kindness. Her neighbor's husband was becoming short of breath as they reached the inside of the house. Using her nursing assessment skills, Jennifer could tell something wasn't right and asked her neighbor to call 911. The gentleman lost consciousness and stopped breathing at that moment.

Without hesitation, Jennifer began to administer CPR, and continued to do so as she heard the sirens approaching. Paramedics arrived, and took it from there. The gentleman was taken to MFSMC where he was diagnosed as having an MI, and spent a few days in the IMC. If it were not for the fast acting efforts of Jennifer, her neighbor may have not had a second chance.

This example shows how Jennifer is a true reflection of the compassion of nursing, not only when she is working, but in the community as well.