Dana Kelly-Orellana
February 2026
Dana
Kelly-Orellana
,
RN
RICU
St. Joseph's Medical Center
Stockton
,
CA
United States
My father was admitted to the hospital suffering from pneumonia and sepsis. Dana showed compassion and care for him, as well as sympathy for our situation. She answered questions to help us decide the best course of action for him. He was intubated upon admission, but knew that was not what he wanted.

We extricated him after four days, and although he was delirious and not himself, he was able to talk and give us a little direction. We asked him if he wanted to be on comfort care, and he said, "No, wait". Later, we saw him struggling more and asked if he needed medicine. He said, "Please." Dana was there to start comfort care. She checked on him frequently. She checked on us frequently.

She told him he was cute, and he said, "I know". We laughed a bit because, well, that was my dad. When Dana walked into the room, her energy and aura were felt by us all. We felt her love and warmth for her career. She is truly an earth angel, and St. Joseph's truly has a gem in her! She is an exceptional nurse, and if there is anyone who represents Humankindness, it is Dana.

She went above and beyond what we expected. She got me a doctor's note for my time off to be with my dad! She talked with the representative for us for the UC Davis Body Donation Program. I appreciate her dedication to her chosen field. Although our hearts are completely shattered, Dana eased it a bit. I am thankful you had her on your staff