Tonya Parcell

Tonya Parcell exemplifies all of the qualities deserving of the Daisy Award, compassion, dignity, professionalism, selflessness, integrity, and excellence. Compassion is defined as a deep awareness of the suffering of another coupled with the wish to relieve it. Working in Oncology for 16 years and having her own family experiences with cancer, Tonya has demonstrated the true meaning of compassion. As a Nurse Manager, Tonya does not often have the opportunity for hands on patient care; however, she has created an environment where compassion and caring are the number one priorities to the staff. Patients and families recognize her commitment to care as shown in the many letters received commending Tonya and her team. Her compassion extends not only to patients, but also to her staff and peers.

One staff member commented, “Tonya always has an open door and is willing to truly listen. She is real, she is not just manager, she is a person.” The lives she has touched throughout her career at Palmetto Health are far too many to list and her impact cannot be measured.

Below is an excerpt from a patient’s husband:
“As you are aware my wife……… passed away on July 27. Thank you for all that you did and your staff’s compassionate care of my wife. As I told you when I met with you in your office, you run a “tight” ship, and it shows. You have a very well trained, dedicated, and professional staff. Other hospitals should be envious. Words cannot justly express the appreciation I have for the care my wife received.”

Over the years Tonya has set the example for her staff in thinking “out of the box” when it comes to going above in beyond in patient care delivery.

A terminally ill patient was going to miss the fiftieth anniversary party his family had planned as he was too sick to leave the hospital. Tonya coordinated a 50th wedding anniversary celebration at a banquet area in our hospital complete with piano player. On the day of the celebration, staff accompanied the patient to the celebration and stayed with him to ensure his care needs were met. Unfortunately, the patient passed away the following week; however, the staff was comforted in knowing they had participated in helping to fulfill the wish for the patient and family.

In another case, as the acting nurse manager of the pediatric oncology unit, Tonya assisted staff to coordinate a helicopter ride for a terminally ill pediatric patient. Staff members accompanied him on the ride to help fulfill his last wish. These are just a few of the many examples where Tonya has gone the extra mile to exceed patient expectations.

Tonya displays dignity and integrity in every interaction. She consistently treats patients, coworkers, and staff with dignity and respect. Her concern for their well being and genuine interest in their lives is evident in her interactions. People are drawn to Tonya, knowing she willingly listens without passing judgment. “Tonya will never ask us to do something she won’t do her herself, she is honest and you always know where you stand with her” was the remark of one nurse on the unit. “Always do what you say you are going to do” is one of her mottos and she consistently demonstrates this with staff and patients. Tonya is fair and honest; she leads by example, exemplifying all the Standards of Behavior every day.

Selflessness is the quality of unselfish concern for the welfare of others. Tonya is unquestionably selfless. She lives in the vision of Palmetto Health everyday putting the needs of others first, going above and beyond for her staff and ensuring they offer the same commitment to their patients. Despite any personal struggles she may be facing, Tonya is always willing to give her all to what ever issue is brought to her. She strives to help others realize their importance and offers undivided attention when a patient or staff member has a concern.

On more than one occasion staff members have reached out to her in a time of personal crisis. No matter where she is, at work or at home, she has never failed to give of herself and follow through to get the staff the assistance or care they need. One staff member credits Tonya for “saving my life both physically and emotionally,” as she faced serious health and personal issues. Another staff member facing a health crisis states, “she supported me as an employee of Palmetto Health and my husband who was totally lost in the situation. We do not have family here and Tonya’s presence was both reassuring and supportive for him.” The staff knows that they can count on her to do the right thing not only for the patients, but also for each of them as individuals.

Tonya exemplifies professionalism, always conscious that she is a representative of Palmetto Health. She strives to be the best at what she does, while encouraging others to do the same. She is certified in oncology and has helped many other nurses on the unit seek and obtain this goal. She is a past recipient of the Palmetto Gold award and has never failed to nominate a deserving team member. A true leader, Tonya empowers staff to take ownership of their professional development and never passes up the chance to grow one of her team. She is a mentor to new and old, taking advantage of every opportunity to help someone else realize their full potential. She never accepts status quo, striving for excellence in all that she does.

There was not a dry eye in the house when she announced she would be leaving our unit to lead another unit. Although she will no longer be the manager of our unit the impact she had on each of us as a leader will never be forgotten.

Nominated by The Staff of 11 East