Shannon Farrell went above and beyond for a patient who was hospitalized on his birthday. When I met this patient, he needed a new IV. He was sitting in the chair with an emesis bag close by. He was crying and expressed to me how today was his birthday and he was sad to be here at the hospital, vomiting and feeling so lousy. He said he had “big plans” to go to PPAC and see Mama Mia, which would be followed by a much-anticipated dinner at Capital Grill. He cried more just thinking about it. He also told me how nervous he was about his health and how today was just a bad day. Hours later, as I passed by his room on 4B, I noticed streamers, balloons, and birthday signage. He said he was still in the chair and crying – only this time, he was crying tears of happiness. Tears of gratitude for the thoughtfulness and compassion shown to him by his nurse. Shannon was clever. She ordered birthday supplies from a store, paid for them, and creatively decorated this patient’s room to bring him a little cheer. I was so moved by her display of kindness and compassion, as was the patient. Shannon was able to help turn this patient’s day into a birthday he will never forget. Thank you, Shannon, for representing the best of Miriam!

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Shannon is like a breath of fresh air. She is friendly, sweet, and great at her job. Miriam is lucky to have her. I never had to use the call bell for her. My meds all came on time. She came into my room to check if I needed anything, was very professional, and was concerned about me and my surgery. You can definitely tell nursing is her passion, and she never forgot to get me anything I needed. I felt very lucky to have such wonderful help during such a hard time. She does her job very well. Thank you. Shannon, you helped my recovery.