A young mother of twins was sent from hospital to hospital with a possible diagnosis of leukemia. She was in emotional shock when she arrived, trying to process the news. Our staff quickly took her in and provided much-needed reassurance as she quickly started her treatment plan.

The patient wasn't able to see her family on the unit due to our visitation policy in the Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, which was an added layer of distress for her to endure. Carla Einsteder and another nurse found out that their daughters were about to celebrate their birthdays, but they would unfortunately remain admitted to the hospital and would therefore miss sharing this milestone with them.

They purchased a birthday cake, set up a table and chairs outside of the Oncology Unit, and transported the patient downstairs, unaware that her children would be waiting there to surprise her. It was a beautiful moment that not only contributed to her healing journey but also demonstrated how these nurses routinely go above and beyond to care for our patients like family.