Cheryl is a member of the Oncology Nursing Society and is responsible for organizing and hosting the fall ONS conference. Cheryl takes what she learns at the conference and applies it to the care of her patients. Cheryl is seen as an oncology resource in the hospital, she has taken it upon herself to make educational binders for new oncology nurses and she is used to orient new nurses to the department.
Cheryl's true gift is her ability to bond with patients and their families. Cheryl spends countless hours talking with patients and their families about their treatment plans and takes the time to listen to their concerns. Cheryl stays in touch with patients after they leave the hospital and stays in touch with families after their loved one has passed away. Cheryl donates her time to the Children's Lives Include Moments of Bravery (CLIMB) program. This program provides emotional support to children whose parents have cancer.
Most inspiring is the Memory Tree Ceremony that Cheryl organizes every Christmas for families that have lost a loved one to cancer. Families are invited to bring an ornament in memory of a loved one and hang it on the Christmas tree in the oncology department. Cheryl coordinates a prayer service, snacks and refreshments. It is very moving to see the families return year after year and be so thankful to Cheryl for the care that she gave. Cheryl has such a pure heart that she can remember very specific details about her patients and she is able to use that gift to create a special bond with them and their families. Cheryl is truly deserving of the DAISY Award.