I first got to know Jodi when I started as a new graduate nurse. I was immediately impressed by her genuine concern and compassion for our patients. With time I got to know Jodi as not only caring and compassionate, but the kind of nurse everyone should aspire to be. Early in my career I came to her with a problem I noticed in multiple patients. She not only assisted me with problem solving, but fostered my critical thinking skills and encouraged me to take my concerns to a higher level. This resulted in widening my scope, a platform for my Clinical Nurse Level IV, and finding a passion I wasn’t aware I had. The thing that really stood out to me was the investment and excitement I felt from Jodi in my efforts while making sure to guide me in the pillars and the Children’s Hospital values. I have seen Jodi foster many nurses in the same way she did with me and I don’t know if Jodi realizes the impact she has on the people she helps.


Jodi also displays this same commitment and compassion with patients and their families. Jodi coordinates all the transfers and admissions for our trach vented patients. The patients that transfer from the NICU are new trach vent patients and their families have a wide range of life changes to deal with aside from learning cares, emergency procedures and the day to day care of a child with special needs. Jodi takes special care in coordinating their care in the transfer and becoming confident and successful in the care of their child. She forms a team of primaries and then asks these nurses to go to the NICU before the transfer and get to know the families and patient. She also addresses any concerns the family has during their admission or concerns the nurses may have.

She can usually be seen at rounds with the physicians communicating concerns or suggestions for care – which the physicians listen to and respect. Jodi takes a particular concern in the continuity of care for the families. She is often in a patient’s room with parents to listen to their frustrations, fears, celebrates with them in their victories, and is a true advocate. The families see Jodi as a partner in their child’s road to discharge. I have watched her demonstrate family centered care with many families and am always struck by the connection she forms over and over again. She goes above and beyond and treats each family as if they are the only family on the floor. She shows them empathy and encouragement during the many transitions they deal with. Jodi exemplifies what it is to be a nurse. I am proud to call her my mentor and friend.

DAISY PHOT0; LEFT, JODI THRASHER, RIGHT KELLY M. JOHNSON, VP/CNO