For 21 years, Donna was the face of our Cardiac Rehab unit and its only nurse. Her job was to monitor patients during exercise sessions. For many patients, Cardiac Rehab was their first experience with exercise. Donna connected with each sincerely and compassionately and lovingly cared for her patients in nontraditional ways. Examples:

When one of her patients required hospitalization, she would visit him, hold his hand and remind him that his friends in Cardiac Rehab were waiting for his return.

Celebrating important events, such as patients' birthdays, holidays, new grandchildren and National Cardiac Rehab Week. She'd throw a party with decorations and healthy food.

When a patient or a patient's spouse passed away, Donna would attend the funeral.

When patients didn't understand their lab results, couldn't get an appointment to see their doctor or had questions about their insurance, Donna made the phone calls and spent the extra time.

If participants didn't attend class, Donna checked up on them.

Donna's official job description didn't include any of these things; that's what makes Donna extraordinary. She advocates, connects and communicates from her heart. Patients, their spouses and families love her, and continue to tell stories about how Donna saved their lives.