I came into the ER with a huge peritonsillar abscess obstructing my airway and was very scared, anxious, and in a lot of pain. From the moment I was brought back, Johanna made sure to reassure me that everything was okay and made sure I was comfortable both emotionally and medically. Off the top of her head, she knew what blood samples and medications were needed before doctors even ordered them.

I couldn’t talk due to my condition, and she made sure to let everyone know I had written a detailed note of my symptoms and their timing on my phone so that they’d read it. She advocated for the care of my psychological needs (I have an anxiety disorder) as an integral part of my treatment process. Even though I could not speak, I knew I was in great care with her on my team. She was working a 7 am to 7 pm shift. I got there around noon, and she left shortly before I was moved into overnight observation. On top of it all, she was very kind to my mom, too. Just an overall gem of a person, and the best ER nurse I’ve had! I could not find words to thank her enough.