ICU/Neuro ICU
May 2025
ICU/Neuro ICU
ICU/Neuro ICU
Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center
Los Angeles
,
CA
United States
Chriselda Manalo, MSN, AGNP-C, CCRN, SCRN - Assistant Department Administrator
Victoria Hatfield, BSN, RN - Staff RN
Joanne Arzate, RN - Staff RN
Terrence Chavez, BSN, RN - Staff RN
Sandy Wong, BSN, RN - Staff RN
Victoria Hatfield, BSN, RN - Staff RN
Joanne Arzate, RN - Staff RN
Terrence Chavez, BSN, RN - Staff RN
Sandy Wong, BSN, RN - Staff RN
In a twist of fate that defied all expectations, I found myself facing a diagnosis of tongue cancer, a battle I never anticipated, given that I had no risk factors, no family history, and had never smoked a day in my life. When my doctor revealed that my condition was as unusual as it was daunting, it felt as if life had handed me a mystery to unravel. I underwent an extensive surgery, a journey into the unknown that led me to the 6th floor ICU at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center. There, amid the white corridors and the hum of vigilant care, I encountered an oasis of compassion. From the moment I arrived until my final day in that unit, every doctor, every staff member, and especially four remarkable nurses, Jo, Terry, Sandy, and Victoria tended to me not just as a patient, but as a cherished human being. Their care was nothing short of extraordinary, a blend of expertise and heartfelt kindness that wrapped around me like a warm blanket on a cold night. With every reassuring smile, every gentle touch, and every word of comfort, they transformed a time of profound vulnerability into a journey of healing and hope. Because of them, I no longer fear illness; instead, I carry with me the memory of their extraordinary spirit and the courage they instilled in me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being the embodiment of care and compassion. You are truly deserving of the prestigious DAISY Team Award, for your extraordinary dedication has forever touched my soul.