This year’s Top 15 earn their spotlight
Following are the Houston Chronicle Salute to Nurses Top 15 Nurse winners’ stories:
Ayoka Badmus, RN, MSN Houston Methodist Hospital
Ayoka Badmus was introduced to nursing in her native country of Nigeria.
“I lived with my auntie, who was a nurse and loved what she did. When she married and moved to North America, I started thinking about the opportunities and how much more I could do in a country where hospitals have power 24 hours a day,” Badmus said.
Her first job was as was a volunteer at a Canadian nursing home.
“I helped feed patients in the evening,” she said, “and I wondered if more knowledge would allow me to help more.”
Badmus said her training has allowed her to work in all stages of nursing.
“I was first a nursing attendant, took classes at Centennial College to be an LVN and worked as an LVN at Edmondton General Hospital.
“During my training, I got married and when you have a ‘rock’ like my husband, you cannot fail,” she said. Her laugh was warm and spontaneous at the same time. “My husband felt I would be a good nurse and has encouraged me every step of the way.”
In 2005, Badmus and her family moved to St. Charles, Missouri, and after two snowy winters there, they moved to Houston in 2007. Now beginning her third decade in nursing, Badmus is working on her doctorate.
“Many people see nursing’s compassion at the bedside,” she said, “but getting my PhD allows me to conduct studies, to research, and understand the transplant patient’s anxieties, frustrations and fears experienced during the time they await the call for an organ.
“My dissertation — understanding the waiting
“Many people see nursing’s compassion at the bedside, but getting my PhD allows me to conduct studies, to research, and understand the transplant patient’s anxieties, frustrations and fears...” Ayoka Badmus
period for transplant — is so interesting because waiting is not something we do well as humans.”
She was nominated for Salute to Nurses by coworker Emmanuel Javaluyas, who described Badmus as an asset to the profession because of her diverse background.
“She worked and schooled in Nigeria and Canada before moving to the USA with her family. She has been a nursing instructor and course coordinator at Alvin Community College and a clinical nurse educator at Houston Methodist Hospital. Badmus said her job is a 24-7 role. “Even when I’m not at the hospital, I am wondering, waiting, not knowing, when a patient needing an organ was going to get,” she said.
As her coworker wrote: “She has a moral compass that governs her words and deeds. She is truly a blessing to all who come into contact with her including patients, families and staff.
“Ayoka is an authentic leader who ‘walks the talk’ and doesn’t expect her staff to do anything she would not do herself. She received the HMH spirituality award in 2017, a great honor that embodies the ICARE values.
“She was a valuable member of the Ride Out Team during Hurricane Harvey for both inpatient transplant units, even sharing her office with a patient’s family member. She is one of the many that flooded, but was still a source of support for staff. One of the staff told me when the flood was over, Ayoka took her home before she even went to see her own family.
“Her staff see her as a mother, friend, teacher and mentor, and her patients call her ‘angel.’ Ayoka is dedicated to the advancement of nursing and has encouraged many of her staff return to school.”
“Two months later, we were still living in a hotel, but nurses rallied around me, bringing food — whatever we needed,” Badmus said. “Everything I saw made me know I work in the best career because without nurses, I could have been down.”
Rhonda Bolin, RN Texas Children’s Hospital
Heidi Castillo, M.D., who nominated Rhonda Bolin, wrote:
“The words that describe Rhonda best are kind, self-sacrificing and compassionate. She not only offers care and compassion to her patients (individuals with spina bifida), but she also does this for her co-workers. I often tell her she is the mother to all around her. She treats others how she would want her children or friends to be treated and seems to have endless kindness she extends to all of those around her.
“I would also describe Rhonda as a team player. I don’t think I have ever heard her refuse a request from a family or co-worker.”
“Countless times in spina bifida clinic, I have seen her complete some of the most basic tasks (such as changing a diaper), but I have also seen her excel in academically rigorous environments (like competing internationally to present spina bifida research). Rhonda takes excellent care of children, adolescents and young adults with spina bifida seen in the clinic for the last 18 years. I often hear mothers refer to her as their ‘best friend.’”
“Until recently she has been the primary nurse for this clinic of approximately 500 children with special needs. Rhonda organized a way to feed lunch to the families of patients who come to our day-long clinic. She also offers them a time of fellowship with each other and needed breaks from the day’s appointments.
“Rhonda spends whatever time is needed to take excellent care of her patients. She is often the last one to leave clinic as she spends her time counseling families and making sure all their needs are met.
“She also reviews the plans with them and makes sure they have a good understanding of all that took place during such a long day. If the families don’t quite understand, she often calls them outside of clinic. This has made for quite a loyal following of her patient population.
“Rhonda has organized, led and staffed (and I suspect often helped fund) a Spina Bifida Family Fun Day for the last 16 years.
“As she feels it is important for her patients to get out in the community and enjoy life, she has organized this annual event, which is usually outdoors and includes food, music, games with prizes, and adaptive sporting equipment (such as a bicycles for children who are wheelchair dependent). I have heard that it is a highlight of their year for many of the kids who come.”
“I have been a doctor for nearly two decades at two of the best five children’s hospitals in the world and I have never worked with a nurse who has been more deserving of this award than Rhonda Bolin.”
Cheryl Brohard, RN, PhD, University of Houston College of Nursing
Graduating from Ohio Weslyan Nursing School in 1981, Cheryl Brohard comes from a tradition of caregiving, beginning with her great-grandmother, Etta. Grandmother Myrtle took care of seniors, as did her mother, Helen.
“I decided in high school to follow in their footsteps,” and because many of her male relatives are teachers, this combined heritage led her to take a teaching position at UH-Victoria’s nursing program 11 years ago. She transitioned to the University Campus three years ago when the nursing program relocated to Houston.
Brohard is described by coworker Katheryn Reeve as intelligent, caring, dedicated and passionate about palliative care and end-of-life issues.
“Cheryl works tirelessly to teach nurses about the end of life in innovative ways. She also is involved in numerous studies to learn more about educating nurses and improving end-of-life care.
A nomination by a patient, Samuel Maultsby, said: “She is soft-spoken, pays attention to detail and is a wonderful advocate for patients and their families. While my wife was ill with terminal cancer, Cheryl helped guide the family to see that hospice was a resource for quality care. She checked in frequently, offering guidance and support, and gave suggestions and resources, provided thoughtful nursing care beyond expectations.
“She offered to sit with my wife during some of the times our family needed help, and she continued to show her care by attending my wife’s funeral.”
Student nominator Melany Vaxa said: “Dr. Brohard, a nurse for 37 years, is a professor who is invested in her students’ education. She ensures she answers any and every student’s concerns.
“She has dedicated her career to care for those who are terminally ill by providing quality nursing care not only to the patient, but also to those around them who need support to face the challenges of the loss of a loved one.”
The nomination by coworker Marcela Diaz-Odonca said: “As an assistant professor at the UH College of Nursing, Dr. Brohard has pioneered innovative clinical simulation opportunities for the newest generation of future nurses.
Through her tireless work in securing a grant through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Nursing Innovation Grant Program, students at UH are now able to experience these challenging situations in a simulated, controlled and safe environment, teaching them how to respond appropriately to various medical conditions while building their confidence and communication skills.
Nurse scholar, teacher
Nominator Kathryn Tart, an administrator, said: “Cheryl is a nurse scholar, excellent teacher and patient advocate. She is caring, concerned and passionate about helping patients and teaching the next generation of students.
Her research is significant in that many people do not know how to do the research she does to better the care of those patients who are dying or near death.”
Ardis Bush, RN Ben Taub Hospital — Harris Health
Growing up about 15 minutes from Ben Taub Hospital in southeast Houston, Ardis Bush became a Candy Striper at Community Hospital while in junior high school and was a volunteer at the Veterans Administration before graduating from Worthing High School in 1971.
“I had planned to study English because my older sister was an English teacher, but at the last minute, two girlfriends talked me in to applying to nursing school at Dillard University,” she said.
After graduating from Dillard, this nurse began her career at Charity Hospital in New Orleans, working in the nursery and then in a 70-bed unit with 60 med-surg beds and a 10-bed jail ward. After three years, she became manager of the unit.
Her natural leadership abilities and her superior nursing skills won Bush recognition as 2017 Administrative Nurse of the Year by the National Black Nurses Association. She also was asked to participate in a documentary with Nurse.com, shared with students in nursing schools across the nation. The documentary’s title was taken from a poem this nurse wrote many years ago, A Nurse I Am.
As a nurse for the past 44 years, Bush believes nursing as a ministry.
“I don’t believe I became a nurse by chance. I was put here for a purpose. As nurses, we must understand a majority of our patients are not sick by choice. Truly, it’s my pleasure to take care of my patients. I see it as a priceless opportunity for me to take care of anyone who comes my way.”
In her nomination, supervisor Carol Eke wrote: “Ardis Bush is viewed by her peers, hospital administration and physicians as a preeminent patient advocate.
“She represents the level of service, sacrifice and innovation to which nurses in the United States and around the world should aspire.”
Promoted
She was catapulted to nurse manager within 18 months of being employed as a new graduate nurse at Ben Taub Hospital, and in 2010, she meshed responsibility of a professional nurse as she became director of nursing for the medical intensive care and
“I have been a doctor for nearly two decades at two of the best five children’s hospitals in the world and I have never worked with a nurse who has been more deserving of this award than Rhonda Bolin.” Nominator Heidi Castillo
“Dr. Brohard, a nurse for 37 years, is a professor who is invested in her students’ education. She ensures she answers any and every student’s concerns.” Nominator student Melany Vaxa
a “I nurse don’t by believe chance. I became I was put here for a purpose .... Truly, it’s my pleasure to take care of my patients.” Ardis Bush
“...she greatly influences her nursing team and her unit. She has a positive attitude and energy that is contagious...”
Nominator Kathy Arthurs
“She is a rare and beautiful individual who is a rock star with her patients. Her calming and caring demeanor can change the most difficult patient.”
Nominator Dr. Cynthia Peacock
“For most patients, being in the hospital is a traumatic and emotional experience. One of the most important qualities she has is the ability to empathize. She always tries to understand how patients are feeling.”
Nominator Administrator Abey Easo
intermediate care units. In this capacity she has set a standard of excellence embodying the organizational mission.
Bush’s units are favored by hospital physicians because of the quality of care and attentions patients receive.
“I used to come to the Ben Taub emergency room for care with my father when I was growing up. We both had chronic asthma and that was the only place we knew to go. I liked the feel of the hospital and I can remember thinking as a child that I would like to work there, so when the opportunity arose to work there, I jumped at it,” she said.
Josephine Cadungog, RN, Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital
Josephine Cadungog’s nickname is “Joy” and her nominator Marygrace Zamora wrote that no other name could describe this nurse as well: Cadungog is making a difference by leading their unit-based shared governance project. During Harvey she led a fundraiser for their staff who were affected and raised more than $1,800. She also stayed at the hospital for several days to help out.
“Joy is very kind, passionate charge nurse. She always cooks and brings food for coworkers. She also plans and celebrates monthly birthdays of her staff,” Zamora said.
The nomination by Kathy Arthurs reads: “She truly is a joyful nurse and encourages not only her patients, but her nursing team. Although she makes a positive difference in the lives of her patients, she also greatly influences her nursing team and her unit. She has a positive attitude and energy that is contagious to those around her — truly joyful.”
One example of the difference Cadungog makes is the annual Patient Care Assistant Appreciation event, which came about from Cadungog’s vision to recognize the work of PCAs as part of the health care team. It is well attended and highlighted in the hospital’s newsletter.
Cadungog leads the planning for this event and ensures gifts are purchased, decorations are made and the best home-cooked food is prepared for the celebration.
Through this event, she has positively contributed to the team spirit on her nursing unit.
Cultural event
Cadungog’s caring and compassion for others was exemplified by the idea for a cultural celebration event for the hospital. She inspired and led the “Around the World Celebration of the Houston Methodist San Jacinto Hospital Family” in January 2018.
She gathered a group of “ambassadors” from various departments, who represented the rich cultural diversity within the hospital.
She facilitated meetings and communication in preparation for the celebration.
This included purchasing a custom-made banner, making poster boards, bringing food and organizing representatives from 14 countries.
The event had an overwhelming response from the hospital staff as nurses from various countries shared about their country of origin. Health care practices, cultural beliefs, food and fun facts were shared at each poster presentation.
The entire hospital atrium was filled with attendees and presenters dressed in their countries’ national costume/dress. It truly was a tapestry interwoven with love and attention to detail as Cadungog and her team of nurses planned the event.
She also makes a positive difference in nursing through her leadership role in shared governance.
One project focused on improving communication among caregivers during transport.
She inspires others and leads by example and provides compassionate care to her patients each and every shift.
Allison Carter, RN Baylor College of Medicine
A nurse since 2015, Allison Carter grew up in Richmond.
“Not knowing where I wanted to go or what I wanted to do, Dad suggested nursing,” she said. “Honestly, I had never thought about it, but I fell in love and knew instantly it was what I was supposed to be doing because every day brought something different, along with the opportunity for a connection with families. “I also knew I was making a difference.” Working with patients with disabilities and special needs, Carter said she is continually inspired by her patients and their families.
“Just their tenacity, the fight the families have to break down barriers to get what the patients need; even simple things can sometimes be challenging, like getting meds refilled,” she said. “These families never take ‘no’ for an answer, and they know we’re also not going to give up — like writing letters, making calls. You know you’re doing something for people. These families consider it a speed bump, not a road block.”
The nurse also is hopeful the stigma often faced by patients with special needs will gradually disappear and said the entertainment industry, by producing TV shows like Speechless and Born This Way, that educate the public about individuals with special needs are making a real difference.
“If community would come together and get to know that our patients are really just people like the rest of us, through volunteering at Special Olympics or in programs like Celebration or others serving people with special needs,” she said, “they will find people who are phenomenally talented as artists, in various crafts and we also have patients who aspire to be DJs and newscasters. And I love telling people what I do because my patients and their families open my eyes. I want to share that knowledge with others.”
Nominated by Cynthia Peacock, M.D., Carter is described as “an incredible, caring individual who has no bias on what people should be or not be. She amazes me every day with her communication skills and how she motivates her patients. She worked her way from being a medical assistant to be a RN, all while working with the same population of patients.
“When she was a medical assistant, she won an award at the end of the year for best in her field that came with a monetary award and dinner. She is gifted and talented, and she is being considered for nursing leadership within the college.
“She is a rare and beautiful individual who is a rock star with her patients. Her calming and caring demeanor can change the most difficult patient. She has become a friend and colleague who I would miss deeply if she were ever to leave this position.”
Mini Daniel, RN LBJ Hospital — Harris Health
Administrator Abey Easo described this outstanding nurse by writing: Mini Daniel is a nurse anyone would want on their team, and especially in stressful situations, like emergencies, traumatic events and tragic illnesses as well as employees because of her everlasting calm and compassion.
An example is: “A patient was brought to the hospital from a personal care home after a stroke. The personal care home refused to take the patient back because the patient had no source of funding, but needed help with activities of daily living.
“Ms. Mini and her team contacted the patient’s brother and he refused to take patient back because the patient had been homeless and estranged from the family for many years, but it was learned the patient had a sister and daughter living in Vietnam. This patient also had no ID, passport or visa.
“This nurse and her team tried multiple other placement options, but all requests were denied. In one last-ditch effort, they contacted the patient’s family in Vietnam and they were willing to take the patient into their home. The nurses also contacted the Vietnam consulate, obtained necessary documents, and went to the consulate and obtained a passport for patient to travel to Vietnam.
“Collaborating with hospital administration and obtaining financial assistance for one-way airline ticket, the nurse collaborated with the patient’s friend and the patient was able to fly to Vietnam to join his family.
“For this patient and his family, Mini went above and beyond the call of duty and helped the patient reunite with his family. This compassionate gesture and the nurse’s hard work made it possible for the patient to stay off the streets.
“As a nursing director, Ms. Mini plays a key role in the delivery and quality of patient care. Her responsibilities include recruiting, managing and supporting staff, supervising the clinical and administrative functions of the department, and developing nursing education for nurse case managers.
“For most patients, being in the hospital is a traumatic and emotional experience. One of the most important qualities she has is the ability to empathize. She always tries to understand how patients are feeling. She always tells her employees ‘we have to put ourselves in their shoes and give them the emotional support they need.’
“She forms a true, empathetic connection with her patients. In many of these cases, patients return year after year to thank her for the services she provided. For patients, such an empathetic nurse can be nothing short of life-changing.”
“I knew I wanted to be a nurse because I wanted to advocate for patients,” Daniel said.
Carolyn Gafford, RN, LBJ Hospital — Harris Health
Beginning as a nurse aide, Carolyn Gafford went on to earn her LVN, AVN, a BSN from UT Houston and her MSN. Gafford heads the observation and telemetry department, the first shortterm care unit of this type at LBJ Hospital.
“I started a similar unit at Memorial Hermann, a department where patients who need further observation after experiencing symptoms ER physicians believe need further monitoring by telemetry, but also the nurse’s eyes on the patient.” Her pride in LBJ Hospital is palpable. “We have patients suffering from renal failure who need a specific diet and many times our patients must choose to buy needed medications or food. To help provide fresh vegetables they need, LBJ is building a vegetable garden. It’s not a huge deal, but
by making fresh produce available to our patients, we’re helping them enjoy a better quality of life — and our hospital won a Harris Innovation Award for the project.”
Administrator Ann Padua wrote: “Carolyn came to LBJ in 2010 as the new nurse director of 3B IMU. It didn’t take long for this optimistic, energetic visionary to make a difference for our staff and patients.
“When Carolyn joined the LBJ family, our unit was in crisis — low patient-satisfaction scores, high turnover and poor morale. Carolyn immediately took action. She told us she was here for us. She laughed, prayed with us and ate with us. She made us feel like a family. Our employee morale went off the charts and our patientsatisfaction scores were up and going higher. Carolyn now heads the LBJ Observation Unit, but her commitment to excellence remains the same.
“During Hurricane Harvey, Carolyn worked and slept on campus for six days. At night, she was the last one to sleep because she wanted to make sure all team members were safe and comfortable, and she offered some needed TLC when the stress of hurricane duty became overwhelming.
“No matter how high she rises in leadership, Carolyn has never forgotten why she chose this profession. At the heart of everything, she remains a compassionate caregiver.
“During Harvey, many evacuees sought shelter at LBJ. A husband and his paralyzed wife were among them. The shivering husband told Carolyn, ‘I don’t want to bother you all. We just need a dry place and hot food.’ Their clothes had been drenched in the storm, so as Carolyn helped them change out of their wet clothes, the husband began to cry. ‘Thank you,’ he said. ‘God bless you.’”
Reyman Herrera, RN CHI Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center
In Acapiz Province in the Philippines, Reyman Herrera completed his nursing training and following the example of his two sisters, he traveled to the United Kingdom, where he worked as an ICU nurse in England before moving to Houston, where he worked in the ICU before moving into case management, working with patients and their families to move to the next step of their treatment.
Setting a record of 24 nominations for Salute to Nurses, this 20-year nurse’s soul-deep commitment to his patients and lasting impact he has on those he meets — this number of nominations isn’t as astonishing as it appears at first glance.
He was nominated by Maria Mezrahi, M.D.; Amy Padgett, LCSW; Kevin Villareal; Jose Castillo; and Romar D. Herrera, a nephew who is a nurse in the Philippines.
Also nominating him are Evette Webb, Aurora Penney, Karina A. Navarro, Mariezen Bibal, Maria Olete, Melinda Hudson Sr., Marilyn B. Bacsain BC (his advisor in Phillippines), Gilbert C. Gallagate, Dale Labang, Catherine Noche, Genevive P. Smiley, Aries Gavino M.D., Francis Sagullo, Jonathan Chu, Jumee Molina, Jasmine Norman, Renan Robles, Carl Potato and Faith Akioyamen.
The following are excerpts from those nominations:
“Reyman continuously goes out of his way to ensure his patients receive the best possible care. He doesn’t just do what is expected, he constantly exceeds the expected. He is also this way with his peers … always lending a helping hand to whoever needs it.”
“He has shared his blessings with the less fortunate, especially back home in the Philippines. He supports financial causes geared toward the impoverished members of the community.
“As the seventh of eight children, he is very generous as the breadwinner of the family. He has been a father to me and my siblings since my parents separated. He was there all throughout the time that I needed a father figure, supporting my endeavors in life.”
“Reyman embodies what it means to be a nurse — caring, compassionate, knowledgeable and most important, an advocate for his patients, peers and organization. He loves what he does and this shows in every aspect of his work. He is dedicated and intensely serious about being a nurse — to the benefit of every patient.”
“As case manager, Reyman helped me as a physician with reviewing my patient to be in the correct admission status. This is important for us and the hospital, to avoid insurance reimbursement denial.”
“He advocates for his patients, assuring their safe transition of care from higher level of care to floor to discharge. His review helps patients understand what appropriate placement options are available and may be needed upon discharge or what durable medical equipment they may need to be home safely.
“As a professional RN, he is always a happy person and easy to work with — very positive and amiable to all.
“Our doctor-to-RN relationship is full of teamwork; professional happy interaction; and goal-oriented toward patient well-being.”
Barbara Kalmen, RN Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital
When Barbara Kalmen was 5 and carrying her dolls around, she decided — as a 5-year-old decides — she would grow up and help mommies and babies, and she never wavered.
“I think some of us just come wired that way,” she said.
For the past 10 years of her career, this outstanding nurse has been a lactation consultant, helping moms with breastfeeding — not only best for the health of the mom, but also for the baby.
“Breast feeding is about falling in love with the baby, and then having someone to stand beside the new mother and encouraging her … and when mother and baby connect, it’s fun watching it happen,” she said.
Administrator Nicholo Keenan wrote the following in her nomination: “Barbara has been a nurse for 43 years, and her passion for quality health care and compassion for others have been the driving force behind her successful career.
“Barbara also is a retired lieutenant colonel with the United States Air Force and recently deployed to Afghanistan, where she served as a nurse.”
In 2009, she was welcomed to Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital in the specialized field of perinatal lactation.
“From the start, everyone at Memorial Hermann Southeast knew Barbara was special. She has an ability to drive quality initiatives, implement successful programs, promote positive change and impact the lives of new families.
“Our lactation program needed a re-boot, a recognizable mark, and a clear direction. Barbara began, with the support of leadership, putting together a highly functioning and specialized team of nurses to help support the program.”
She re-invented the program image by naming her team, the BEES, which stands for Breastfeeding Education Energizes Success. Everything the lactation team does has a bee theme; from bee magnets to tell the nurses that a particular patient has been seen by lactation, to giving out sticks of honey at lactation education sessions.
“We have patients suffering from renal failure who need a specific diet .... To help provide fresh vegetables they need, LBJ is building a vegetable garden.” Carolyn Gafford
Setting 24 nominations a record for of Salute to Nurses, this 20-year nurse’s souldeep commitment to his patients and lasting impact he has on those he meets — this number of nominations isn’t as astonishing as it appears at first glance.
“Barbara lieutenant also colonel is a retired with the United States Air Force and recently deployed to Afghanistan, where she served as a nurse.” Administrator Nicholo Keenan
“This move has successfully brought attention to our lactation program and it’s now in popular demand. Barbara recently presented at an EMPower conference on creative ways to educate nurses and shared this information.
“Besides revamping our lactation program, as if that was not enough, Barbara also worked to help Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital obtain other awards and designations. She initiated our hospital path to become a Texas 10 Step Hospital, which recognizes hospitals who have implemented the 10 steps to good breastfeeding.”
From there she applied for a hospital IBCLC Care Award. These programs are tied closely and in order to be awarded for either, you must meet rigorous criteria.
“The awards are not easily earned; they require great dedication, high quality and consistent monitoring. Through Barbara’s leadership our hospital has received both awards.”
She also reached out and successfully engaged our hospital in participating in the Texas Learning Collaborative. Here she collaborates with the state, which runs this initiative, to better track and enhance breastfeeding rates.
Compassion for others has always driven Kalmen. Whether at Memorial Hermann Southeast, Memorial Hermann Pearland, or even as far as Afghanistan, her focus is on her patients and their families, doing what’s right for them.
She does this by educating staff in ways that keep them interested, staying up to date on best practices, promoting World Breastfeeding Week, and most of all, acting as an example for others to follow.
“She is well respected by both staff and physicians for her knowledge, dedication, and commitment to serving others. Our lactation program would not be the same without Barbara. She is truly remarkable.”
Danielle Springer, RN, Tomball Regional Medical Center
Danielle Springer was nominated for this year’s Salute to Nurses by several coworkers, administrators, patients and physicians. In each nomination, she was characterized as a nurse any hospital, physician, fellow nurse and patient would want at the bedside.
The following are only parts of nominations submitted:
“Danielle has trained almost every nurse working in Tomball Regional Medical Center’s operating rooms. She is dedicated and loves to teach. Every surgeon wishes they could have her in their room to circulate because they know she will protect their patient, be efficient, and everything will go as smoothly as possible.”
“I was most impressed when I helped her during a CABG (coronary artery bypass grafting) that did not go so well. After many hours in the OR, we eventually ended up doing all we could to save a life. We were taking turns doing chest compressions and the patient eventually ended up passing away.
“The plan was to transport the patient back to ICU, where the team there would take care of the body for the family to view. I went to care to some other duties. When I returned, Danielle had taken the time to clean up the patient and prepare her prior to her transport to the room, “just in case the family sees her before.” She loves the patient first and foremost, and it always shines through with Danielle. She is one of a kind.”
“Besides being a mentor to me and all new nurses, Danielle steps up and teaches, guides, lends a shoulder, rallies the troops, organizes and manages our work space, and provides a base of experience to everyone in the OR, preop and PACU.”
“She takes on every challenge with determination and a smile. I was facing some challenges at work and she pulled me aside to encourage me and support me, and was a huge reason I was able to face and overcome my challenges.”
Another nomination reads: “She has huge heart, always being helpful to new and seasoned nurses alike. Danielle is always willing to share her time and knowledge to help others and always makes sure her patients are properly cared for.
“She rallies for co-workers during hard times, raising money, lending a shoulder, cooking a meal, whatever it takes. Meanwhile, she is a mom, wife and inspiration to me and other nurses as well. A truly dedicated heart nurse who wholeheartedly advocates for both her patients and their families. She’s a wonderful team player with a fun-loving spirit and an excellent work ethic.”
“Danielle is an OR nurse who seems to understand nursing better than anybody I’ve ever met. Everything she does is centered on the patient. As a heart nurse, she knows the intricacies of the operating room, but is very conscious of the patient and family, knowing how important communication is to all involved. Danielle is an amazing nurse that always goes above and beyond for her physicians, coworkers and patients. She is the best example of what a nurse should be and deserves to be recognized for all her great work.
“Recently a coworker fell ill and his spouse also works in our department, so they both left work to be able to care for him, creating a financial strain, so Danielle organized meal donations, fundraisers, and compiled videos and cards from hundreds of people to lift our coworkers’ spirits in their time of need.
“She is a blessing to us, but most importantly to her patients. She is one of our cardiac surgical nurses. She can scrub or circulate. Nothing stands in her way, and she does it all with grace.”
Elvira Ticzon, RN, LBJ Hospital – Harris Health
As her nominations indicate, Elvira Ticzon is a force of nature when it comes to caring for patients and outstanding nursing skills.
A native of the Philippines, this 39year veteran of nursing trained in the Philippines, becoming the nurse her mother had always dreamed of being. After working there, she took a job in Jordan and later worked in Saudi Arabia before coming to the United States in 2003, seeking the benefits of more advanced technology and educational opportunities for her two daughters.
Always electing to be at her patients’ bedside, she said the high point of her career was being named “Extraordinary Nurse” in June 2017 and earning bronze for the customer satisfaction program she developed with her patients. What makes her a good nurse? “I believe we’re all the same — and when you provide hope and compassionate care and you become a friend
“Besides being a mentor to me and all new nurses, Danielle steps up and teaches, guides, lends a shoulder, rallies the troops, organizes and manages our work space...” Nominator
as well as a nurse, it tears down walls,” she said.
Ticzon’s daughters have had an opportunity to watch their mother work, have seen her giving of herself and the joy she receives from caring for her patients.
“I’m happy to do whatever I can to make the patients comfortable, to hold their hand and to pray with them,” she said. “I never expect anything in return. I’ve been my daughters’ role model and they’ve turned out to be good nurses,” she said.
As coworker Linda Ezennia wrote: “She is a very compassionate, caring nurse and would go extra miles to make sure patient needs are met. She advocates for her patients. She smiles all the time and always has a positive attitude.
“Who do you want to be when you grow up? For me, the answer is easy. I want to be like Elvira Ticzon.
“At LBJ Hospital, she displays her expertise at the bedside as a preceptor, skin care champion and Harris Health Wellness Champion.
“In February, Ms. Ticzon was selected as a Harris Health Hero Employee of the Quarter for excellence in nursing care.
“The American Nurses Association named 2017 as the Year of the Healthy Nurse and at age 60, Ms. Ticzon runs 5K, 10K and half marathons. She is a regular volunteer at the annual Houston Marathon, and in April she also volunteered as a nurse for The Vintage Park Half Marathon.
“At the Vintage Park Half Marathon, Ms. Ticzon learned a runner was lost. Without hesitation, she deviated from the course to search for the lost athlete. When she found the runner, she realized he was blind.
“She held his hand and redirected him onto the course. She then continued to hold his hand as they ran the last mile of the race together.”
Lisa Williams, RN CHI St. Luke’s Health
Lisa Williams had an older sister, a nurse and role model for her younger sister. Unfortunately, her sister was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) and passed away. “I know she was a good nurse because her patients attended her funeral and told us how she had changed their lives,” said Williams, who was a vice president at a bank at the time.
The whole experience led her to enroll in the nursing college in Grayson College in Dennison, and for the past two decades, she has followed in her sister’s footsteps, now serving as director of patient care services at CHI St. Luke’s. She has found her calling.
Co-workers Tammy Simon and Nicholas Masalla wrote this in Williams’ nomination:
“Lisa is a dedicated, loyal and selfless nurse. During Hurricane Harvey, she stayed at the hospital 24 hours a day to ensure patients were cared for. She was instrumental in assisting with the evacuation of the St. Luke’s Sugar Land Hospital and greeted every patient as they arrived by ambulance — in the rain.
“She came to the aid of FEMA as they were trying to get into Houston to provide aid. Their leader was so grateful and impressed they gave her a Military Challenge Coin, which is super hard to get and really cool. (Those who possess this coin are treated to a round of drinks from everyone in every drinking establishment they visit.)
“Our mother taught us empathy early in life, and my mantra became, ‘There but for the grace of God go I,’” Williams said.
Hanging in her office is a picture of Lou Gehrig, titled, “The Greatest Game.” It’s her reminder of her sister and how she touched and changed lives.
“Nursing is the greatest profession in the world,” she said.
As Tammy Simon wrote, “After six days, when the recovery team arrived, instead of going home, Lisa went to the airport in Conroe and help those nursing home patients who were evacuated by the military from Beaumont. She was there until after midnight until every last one was on a bus to their new facility. I want to grow up to be Lisa one day.”
In the history of the Chronicle’s Salute to Nurses, very few of the top nurses received nominations from family members.
Her husband Larry wrote: “Lisa is a caring and inspiring leader within the CHI St. Luke’s organization dedicated to continually improving the emergency operations.
“She leads the efforts for three hospitals (The Woodlands, Lakeside and Springwoods) and multiple standalone emergency facilities, with direct employment under her care of around 160 team members.
“Through her direction they have enhanced patient satisfaction while improving the timeliness of services. In addition, the CHI St. Luke’s Lakeside Joint Camp program of advanced orientation has received excellent reviews and appreciation from participants.”
Margie Winton, RN St. Joseph Medical Center
Co-worker Majerle Anderson said this in her nomination: “Margie embodies all the qualities of an excellent leader. She leads by example and is a big advocate for her patients and coworkers.
“She never lets her sometimes chaotic surroundings get the best of her, and remains steadfast in her patience and kindness toward others. It’s hard to say if it is her years or nursing experience or just her personality that gives her this ability.
“Margie is very thoughtful and always goes above and beyond to recognize other’s accomplishments. Whether a thoughtful note or simple compliment, she is always encouraging others. She is a mentor to many and is always available when someone needs guidance or a friendly ear to listen.
“This nurse makes a difference every day, whether she’s tending tpatients at work or volunteering her time on her days off, Margie’s love for nursing and other people is contagious.
“Others turn to her for guidance and mentorship in their own practice and she is the biggest encouragement to younger nurses, like myself, seeking knowledge and growth.
“Upon passing my CCRN exam, she wrote me a kind note and brought me a CCRN pen and badge clip. These are small things, but she recognized them and made me feel so proud.
“When many of us were working tirelessly through Hurricane Harvey, Margie took time to write inspirational quotes on various white boards around the unit to keep spirits high.”
Co-worker Mandi Johnson added, “Margie is a wonderful asset to our ICU. She is an effective leader and great role model to our younger, less experienced nurses.
Dedication
“She has dedicated her professional life to nursing and the care of the ICU patient. She works in multiple roles within the ICU — charge nurse, patient advocate and most importantly as preceptor to new graduate nurses. She has obtained much expertise in her 38 years at St. Joseph Hospital and generously shares her knowledge and time
“At the Vintage Park Half Marathon, Ms. Ticzon learned a runner was lost. Without hesitation, she deviated from the course to search for the lost athlete. When she found the runner, she realized he was blind. She held his hand and redirected him onto the course.” Coworker Linda Ezennia
“After six days, when the recovery team arrived, instead of going home, Lisa went to the airport in Conroe and help those nursing home patients who were evacuated by the military from Beaumont.” Nominator Tammy Simon
“Whether a thoughtful note or simple compliment, she is always encouraging others. She is a mentor to many and is always available when someone needs guidance or a friendly ear to listen.” Nominator Majerle Anderson
with less experienced nurses.”
Winton’s introduction to nurses and nursing came when she was a child and her father had hospitalizations. This led her to leave the family’s farm to pursue a nursing degree at Tarlton State and then Texas Woman’s University’s Houston campus. She has praise for her hospital during Hurricane Harvey, a trying time — but the hospital did an excellent job assisting employees and in providing care.
“Many employees had damage to their homes, yet kept going. We had our Harvey Heroes in the hospital and our administrators were amazing,” she said. as an emergency room nurse in China, she moved to the U.S. in 2010, saying it took an entire year to become accustomed to the American nursing system. The difference?
“In China, a new doctor and a new nurse were on the same level. The two worked in a collaborative sense, although the doctors were rewarded more. But, as in the U.S., many women in China became nurses.
Her passion for nursing can be seen in giving patients the care they deserve and her efforts to make patients comfortable during treatments.
“My patients ask me, ‘how can you care for cancer patients, day after day?’ But I always feel I need to do more,” she said.
Nominated by Judy Sarkan, RN, Yu is described as “an amazing person with both limitless physical energy and passionate caring for each and every patient.
“She is loved by her patients and coworkers. During Hurricane Harvey, Hong was out of town, but returned early from her trip so the staff could get some time off after riding out the hurricane. She agreed to immediately come to work on the Saturday and Sunday following the hurricane without yet knowing if her home had been affected by the storm.
“When the January 2018 Houston ice storm hit, Hong headed straight to work and stayed overnight on a cot in a conference room to ensure our patients had quality and continuity of care.
“One family member in particular thought the world of Hong and said the following: ‘Hong was not only professional in explaining about the purpose of the medications and how they helped my dad, but she was also patient, kind and tolerant. Thus far she has been the best employee on staff that we have come into contact with in the entire facility.
“She took time to repeatedly explain the same things until we fully understood what we wanted to know. I felt confident in leaving the hospital for a break, knowing she was taking perfect care of my father. I wish all employees could mirror her.”
Another patient said: “Hong was amazing today. She took time to help me walk around the nurse’s station even though she was busy. She was very thorough and I have not seen anyone do such a wonderful job in changing my PICC dressing — very efficient.”
Here is what another coworker had to say about her: “Hong, aka ‘Super Nurse,’ is always concerned about her patients. It feels good to see that look of caring in her eyes. Sometimes I catch her working alone, only to say, I was on my way, but Hong is a nurse who can take on 10 patients if she needs to.”
“She took time to repeatedly explain the same things until we fully understood what we wanted to know. I felt confident in leaving the hospital for a break, knowing she was taking perfect care of my father.” Nominator/patient family member