Danielle Waller, RN, BSN, CMSRN

Danielle Waller was the most outstanding nurse I've had at Northwestern Medicine. I was recovering from colon resection surgery, and it was time to get out of bed. Danielle was helping to get me out of bed and walking. I had a panic attack. I lost it. A year’s worth of constant medical problems and the simple act of trying to get out of bed triggered a level of anxiety I had never experienced before. I was emotionally inconsolable. Thankfully, I had Danielle there. She quickly realized the urgency of the situation and, with calm and empathy, was able to get extra equipment to help me feel safe walking. Danielle had total control of the situation. She immediately made calls to my surgical team and was able to get the psychiatrist to see me very quickly. Because of her actions, I was able to get the appropriate medication to help reduce my anxiety and organized visits in my room with the clinical psychologist as well. Danielle's actions turned out to be a vital turning point. A year’s worth of medical problems culminated that morning in a mental health crisis that no one saw coming. Danielle's training and intuitive gifts led to the best resolution for me both in the short term as well as my long-term mental health recovery. I'm so grateful that Danielle was there for me.