John is a colleague that each person loves to work with. His first career was in law enforcement and that is none more evident than when a fellow nurse is working at his side. When he's on duty, patient and staff safety is a priority. He's an analytical, quiet thinker, but don't let that lead you to believe that he is cold. In fact, he's the total opposite.
A few months ago, when a patient was losing hope, John arrived with apples and cider donuts to cheer him on in a way that only John could do. He will do anything for his patients. I've seen him single handily change patient rooms if it will make a patient smile. If you are lucky enough to work Sundays with him, you too get to experience his best donuts and pastries, even when he is watching his weight. And dare I forget to mention how he brings all the staff chocolate on Valentine's Day?
John's outstanding bedside care was dually noted in the Living our Values publication with a focus on compassion. A patient's daughter had penned a letter to Dr. M noting that John, the amazing nurse who went above and beyond, did his best to keep everyone informed. The daughter also penned how she was given hugs when she needed them and was passed tissues when she was given straight answers. This is the type of nurse that many of us want to be. John McNellis goes above and beyond for patients and staff alike.