We are colleagues in the OR, but I was recently a patient, and would like to share my exceptional experience with Joan Banovic.

I was scheduled for an elective procedure. My condition rapidly deteriorated and it became apparent that I would require emergency surgery. I was terrified, crying, imagining the worst possible outcomes, and Joan responded with the calming and reassuring words I needed to hear. She assured me that she would be at my side in the OR. Joan called our manager and obtained approval for her to assist with my surgery. Joan arrived at HUMC and came to visit me on the nursing unit prior to the procedure to reassure me that I had a great caring team preparing for my procedure. She came to the floor again to personally pick me up for surgery, as transport was not available.

Joan remained by my side, holding my hand, again reaffirming the amazing team that had assembled for me . . . on a Sunday night in July! Joan ended up staying until 4 a.m. to clear the busy OR schedule that had been made busier by my emergency.

Joan's professionalism, care, and compassion helped to calm and comfort me when I was most vulnerable and in need of a compassionate caregiver.