Dawn Patrick is the epitome of a phenomenal leader. In 20 years of nursing, I have never experienced the kind of love and support that Dawn provides to our team. She is intelligent and competent, kind, and caring, but she is also strong and steadfast in her role as our manager and mentor. Within a very short time on our unit, I have seen firsthand how compassionate and outgoing Dawn is with every member of our team, every patient that walks through our doors, and honestly, everyone in general. The example she sets and the environment she creates in Outpatient Infusion has made this unit the most phenomenal place I have ever worked. Even on the busiest of days, you know you are never alone. Dawn is right there with you. She is the present. She works with us and goes above and beyond to let every one of us know we are valued and important. She cares about us as employees, nurses, and humans. We can trust her completely. Her support is unconditional. That is very rare and is a gift.

I transferred to a new specialty after 13 years and I was petrified. I knew I was ready to move on from my previous specialty, but I was honestly scared. In my first few weeks I was overwhelmed. I had no idea if I had made the right choice, but the comradery and the support that I felt was unlike anything I had ever experienced. I could feel the trust, mutual respect, and love that every person truly felt for one another. The environment was so warm and felt like a family. I was never made to feel like an outsider and immediately accepted and supported by every team member. That is the example Dawn sets and the culture she cultivates. My fear quickly faded. I was learning and excited and feel like this unit is home. I feel like I had found a rare gem and I cannot imagine being anywhere else. I attribute that to the person and manager Dawn Patrick is. I would like to thank her from the bottom of my heart for believing in me, even when I was unsure about myself, and creating this amazing family and unit, I can now call home.