Tanya Kuchta, RN

Avera Sacred Heart Hospital hallways are blessed with so many staff members in the guise of angels that it is difficult to choose just one, but there is one whose halo shines a little brighter, whose wings beat a little stronger, and whose heart is as big as heavenly skies. And that angel is Tanya Kuchta. My own daughter is a hospice nurse, so I am keenly aware of exceptional healthcare, and Tanya stood out immediately and consistently. "Goes the Extra Mile", is at the heart of everything she does. She doesn't depart from the bedside without repeatedly asking, "Is there anything else I can do for you? Do you need something to drink? More ice? Television volume turned up? How about I rub some lotion on your back?" She'll ask with a smile and a wink, gladly complying if the patient requests it. She literally seeks out more work for herself for the sake of her patients and does it with a happy smile and a happy heart.
One can just tell serving is her calling. At 59 years old, I got the devastating news that I have life-limiting, metastatic cancer and weeks to live. I don't know how I'm navigating my progress, but I do know Tanya has been sent by God to me. She immediately came to my bedside with tears streaming down her face, emitting love, kindness, and support. Just like Florence Nightingale herself, holding a bright candle to light the way for those she can. She goes the extra mile, is respected by her colleagues, and gives it her all in the big ways as well as the little ways. Like making sure the Kleenex box is near, your pillow is fluffed, your water and heart are full. When she departs the room, you just know she gave it her all, and was born to serve, and serve she does.
An exemplary example of true dedication, both professionally and as a person. How sad I am to depart this world, but how blessed I am to ride out under wings as big as Tanya's wings are. I am blessed to have had her as my nurse, as all of her patients are.