I'm a healthy and active 64 y/o male. However, I had no idea that my "widow maker" artery was completely blocked. On 4/6/25 I had a heart attack playing pickleball with 2 of my sons and nephew. My oldest son, Ryan, is a pediatric endo doc and he performed CPR and used the AED to bring me back to life. I was transported to the ER at Hillcrest Sunday night, and I was scared out of my mind. I had never spent an evening in a hospital as a patient.

On Monday morning April 7th I finally got a room in the CCU. I was greeted there by a friendly angel, the most caring, welcoming and comforting person, my nurse, Stefanie. I spent 2 days under Stefanie's care. Stefanie immediately made me feel cared for and loved.

All my fears were gone. I was in the best place with the best nurse one could have under my circumstances. Stefanie exuded confidence and positivity. She took great care of me and at the same time was providing excellent mentoring to an up-and-coming star nurse who was under her tutelage.

My stay at Hillcrest was an exceptional experience. I felt cared for and loved. Stefanie is an exceptional nurse, but more importantly, a wonderful person. She exhibited excellence in every quality the award recognizes: knowledge and expertise, extreme compassion and an outstanding role model. Stefanie is a gem.