Danielle shows exceptional leadership, compassion, and advocacy during an incredibly challenging and tragic situation. One early January morning, the St Anne ED team received a family of four that suffered burns from a devastating house fire. Among them was a father and his 11-year-old son, both critically burned over large areas of their bodies and requiring intubation. While the father was quickly accepted and transferred to the UMC Burn Unit, the son’s placement proved more difficult due to the severity of his burns. Despite the tireless efforts of the patient flow coordinator and the behind-the-scenes support team, numerous facilities declined to accept the young patient because of his extensive burn injuries.

It wasn’t until approximately 6.5-7 hours later that we were able to secure placement for him in Galveston, Texas. In the midst of this, we encountered an even more heartbreaking situation. The mother, a Spanish speaker, was emotionally distraught and had no means of transportation to Galveston. She was also unable to fly with her son due to the requirements of the transfer.

Recognizing the deep emotional distress the family was under, Danielle did not hesitate to step in. While discussing the situation with the team, Danielle advocated fiercely for the family, urging us to find a way to keep them together. She paused the entire transfer process and initiated a timeout to gather the team, which included the ED provider, Transfer Center, Flight Team, and receiving hospitals. Danielle’s call to focus on patient-centered care and to prioritize family unity was both profound and compassionate.

Thanks to Danielle’s unwavering advocacy and leadership, Dr. Wolfort took the additional step of re-engaging with the local accepting hospitals. With her persistence and Dr. Wolfort, the hospital ultimately agreed to accept the patient, allowing the mother to stay with both her son and her husband during their difficult journey. The family remained together, and the mother was able to be by their side during their treatment.

Danielle’s compassion, determination, and commitment to keeping her patients’ needs at the forefront were instrumental in making this happen. Her actions ensured that, even in the darkest moments, this family could find solace in each other. She is the advocate we all need when we’re faced with the hardest decisions and when the most is on the line. Danielle also created a fundraiser for the family, raising $1,500 and other essential items for the family to rebuild their home. Danielle’s leadership and dedication are a shining example of what it means to be a nurse, and she is incredibly deserving of this honor.