On Wednesday, December 1, 2014, Wendy Burke was diagnosed with stage 4 appendiceal adenocarcinoma. She underwent extensive surgery and 6 rounds of chemotherapy. She was able to return to work a few months later and worked tirelessly while taking chemo treatments. She rarely missed a day of work while suffering herself. Throughout her journey, she continued to be an amazing nurse.
The compassion and caring Wendy shows patients is a joy to watch and a critical part of the success of our orthopedic program. Even though she is struggling with her own health, she continues to be such a shining light in my busy orthopedic practice. Her positive and uplifting soul has had a major impact on many lives. Almost daily, a patient asks about her if they do not see her. Patients tell us they are praying for her. Her courage is an inspiration to fellow employees and my patients as well.
She is a major player in all areas of the orthopedic clinic. One of her responsibilities is to do preoperative education for patients scheduled for surgery. She not only performs that with the utmost quality, she establishes personal relationships with the patients that not only reassure patients but is critical to our success. Her wonderful spirit and love for people is incredible. Everyone on the orthopedic staff feels she deserves recognition for being such a great person/nurse and her attitude towards battling her terminal condition.
The values of compassion, respect, excellence, stewardship and community are completely what Wendy is about. She is the ideal person for the DAISY Award. She is an inspiration for me. - submitted by Dr. Thomas DiStefano