I suddenly became ill while at work. I doubled over with severe abdominal pain. Although I begged my supervisor to let me leave, instead, Shana came to check on me in the PACU.

Within seconds of seeing my condition, Shana stepped out and returned with Dr. W. The next thing I remember, Shana was walking me to the Emergency Room and helping me into a bed. I kept telling her, “I’ll wait in the waiting room,” but she firmly insisted on taking me straight to the back. I can be very stubborn and do not like being patient; I kept hoping the pain would just go away. She even kindly offered me a wheelchair, but I insisted on walking.

Shana quickly gave a report to the ER physician, and almost immediately, they began starting IVs, drawing labs, and ordering a CT scan. Throughout the entire ordeal, she continuously checked on me. As soon as a diagnosis was made, she worked tirelessly behind the scenes to get me to surgery as quickly as possible.

Before I knew it, she appeared at my ER curtain with a wheelchair and off we went to pre-op. She had already given a report to the surgeon, so he was fully aware of my condition before I even arrived.

I truly believe that Shana’s rapid and accurate assessment, combined with her decisive “just do it” attitude, saved my right colon. She personally ensured I was expedited every step of the way, from the ER to pre-op. I was honestly surprised she did not run the CT scanner herself.

Shana’s new nickname, though she does not know it yet, is “Colon Saver” or “Cecal Superwoman.” She can choose. It is such a gift to work with a team of professionals who care not only for our community but also for one another like family.

That day, Shana was my provider, my transport, and my friend. I appreciate her more than she will ever know. Her exceptional clinical judgment, decisive action, and genuine compassion made a profound difference in my outcome.

Shana is truly deserving of this DAISY Award.