When I think of the words "fierce advocate" and "patient-centered", Darcy Doege is always the first name that comes to my mind. In the past 6 years, I have had the honor of working alongside Darcy in a variety of capacities. Most recently I witnessed her successfully build our mobile lung cancer screening program. Darcy always goes out of her way to ensure that patient and their family's needs are met, whether they are her primary responsibility or not. I have seen her stop in her tracks to walk a lost and anxious family member to the other side of the campus to find their loved one. She has also taken time out of her chaotic day to help a co-worker meet a deadline and continuously demonstrates an unparalleled level of compassion and commitment.
In recent months, when the loved one of a co-worker was experiencing a medical crisis, Darcy spent time in the hospital visiting them both, offering support and coordinating care. This was not a part of her job, it was simply a reflection of who she is, an incredibly dedicated and caring nurse to her core.
Darcy does not hesitate to reach out to providers to make recommendations that will improve a patient's outcome and she doesn't waver in her stance that patients always come first. Darcy's genuine and empathetic nature invite patients and co-workers alike to seek her support and she can often be found intently listening and offering guidance for challenging problems. Thank you Darcy, for all that you do.