During one of the most terrifying times of my life, Shannon was the nurse who carried me through it. I was admitted to the ICU in Arizona during a myasthenic crisis, far away from my family and completely alone. I was terrified, scared of what was happening to my body, overwhelmed by the uncertainty of each hour, and battling constant waves of anxiety. Shannon was the calm in the middle of that storm.

From the moment she walked into my room, she treated me with compassion and dignity, never once making me feel like just another patient on her list. She explained each step of my care in a way that made me feel included and safe, sitting with me when I was anxious or overwhelmed, and holding space for my fears while also giving me confidence that I wasn’t facing this alone. In those moments when I couldn’t control my breathing, she reminded me to focus on the little victories and gave me the reassurance I so desperately needed.

Her patience, kindness, and humanity helped transform one of the darkest, loneliest experiences of my life into one where I still felt seen, cared for, and valued. Shannon didn’t just care for my body - she cared for my spirit, and that is something I will never forget.