As Thanksgiving Day approaches and I reflect on all the blessings I have received this year, I could not help but feel extra thankful to Debra “Deb” Mason because of the impactful difference she made in my life—literally…

End of July, while working under the supervision of Deb in my home department, I started to feel increasingly sick with chills, tremors, and sore throat. Deb immediately assisted me to the break room, took my vital signs, checked my blood sugar (which was low), and insisted on me going to the ED to get further tests. Even though I was hesitant to go to the ED, stating “I’ll be OK, I just probably need to go home and rest,” Deb sold it good to me! She said, “If you go now, it will be red carpet entrance; if you go home and do not feel good later and you decide to go to the ED, you will have to wait like a regular patient.” I said, “OK, Deb, I’ll go get checked.” After lab draw results came back, the ED Doc came to me with a concerned look. My WBC was critically high, and I did not look that sick to have such an elevated level. This was a Red Flag. After being admitted for a few days and further tests were performed, I was diagnosed with really early stage of Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML). Such an incidental but early finding allowed me to initiate Chemotherapy early, and I am now on my way to remission. Wow!!!! Deb, I have no words to describe how thankful I am for you. In my eyes, you deserve the highest honoring award for your leadership and caring towards your patients and coworkers. Thank you, thank you, thank you!