I've been a patient of Diane's for about 10 years. She's an excellent nurse and wonderful person. She has helped me consistently with this most challenging part of my life. I had the privilege to serve in the United States Marine reserves and was injured during a combat deployment overseas. After returning home, I was injured in a car accident that resulted in the loss of my job, my home, my marriage, and my health. I am grateful for Diane's consistency, her care, and her going above and beyond what I have experienced with other nurses.

One specific time I recall was arriving at the VA Medical Center experiencing panic, anxiety, confusion and other symptoms related to mild traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. Diane came out of her office immediately and spoke with me, calming my anxious thoughts and addressing the issue at hand. While this may not seem like much, who she is and what she does gives mild traumatic brain injury survivors hope that we are heard and that we are cared for. Diane has done this time and time again, she has never raised her voice, she has responded, she gives her time freely.

One particular event where she gives of herself is attending a local veteran's breakfast, where she speaks, comforts, and shares her medical knowledge and experience with those who have struggled with injuries received during combat and non-combat military duties.