February 2019
Emily
Buindo
,
RN
Med/Surg, Oncology
Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center
San Diego
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

Emily's passion for her patients and coworkers shines through. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her patients are comfortable, happy and safe. She is an excellent, competent charge nurse who has proven to be a strong support to the team and able to handle emergency situations with calm confidence. It is always a pleasure working with her.
***
I met Emily early in the morning. I had already showered and washed my hair. It was Day 15 of my chemo cycle; I was told by my oncologist that I would lose my hair on Day 16. After combing out my wet hair, there was a lot of hair on the comb. There was also a lot on my pillow. Later in the morning Emily came in and remarked that she noticed I was losing my hair from what she saw in the trash. I acknowledged this and cried at the prospect. She told me she would stay with me while I cried but also that she was known as the hospital barber. If I wanted, she would shave my head. My husband and I had a brief discussion, and I decided to do it. There are not too many times when one has cancer when one can have control. I took this generous offer of Emily's and took control. It was no big deal and I felt much better! I am incredibly thankful to Emily for her grace and courage to offer me help in a difficult time. She is a wonderful nurse!