Josephine has been part of the VNAHG team since 2004, and it is hard to believe she will be receiving her 20-year recognition this year! She treats every day like a new adventure and demonstrates perseverance in the face of challenges. She is not afraid of change; in fact she is an agent of change and advocacy for not only patients but also her fellow employees. Josephine participates in a number of committees to support the organization in identifying nursing practice problems and streamlining or enhancing nursing documentation. She provides designated new hires with an all-inclusive and comprehensive orientation and frequently offers help and guidance to any nurse who seeks assistance or intermittent support. Jo is not afraid of speaking up or going against the grain to facilitate change and betterment. She has collaborated with facility HCICs and liaisons to advocate for patient and staff safety, as well as reasonable budget considerations, by urging for improved DC planning and preparation, including appropriate DC summaries, med recs, and supply preparations.

The association has received multiple compliments from Josephine’s patients and their caregivers wanting to show gratitude for the time and effort she put into managing their cases. She has received Caregiver Hero Awards in honor of monetary donations made in her name and written and phoned in compliments raving about her care. One grateful patient wrote a letter stating, “Dear Nurse Josephine, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for the professional care you rendered to me. This was the most difficult time in my life, both physically and emotionally. Your knowledge, patience, attention to detail--- and, most appreciated--- your caring attitude meant a great deal to me. You never pushed our appointments, always followed up with information, and made yourself available for questions. This episode in my life will obviously never be forgotten. But equally, you will forever reside in my heart and soul for the care and compassion you rendered.” This patient also called in after writing the letter, and stated he felt compelled to further explain his situation and report that his experience with VNAHG nurse Josephine Sandberg was incredible. He stated he is now a retired doctor (oral and maxillofacial surgery specialty), and since undergoing surgery for sigmoidectomy and temp colostomy placement, he can speak from both the perspective of the healthcare provider and patient.

He went on to advise that he was very upset and fearful upon coming home, and he had significant worries about how he and his wife would manage the new circumstances. He said Josephine made him feel very comfortable to call whenever he had questions or needs pertaining to his illness. He stated, "I didn't want to bother her, but she made me feel like my concerns were a priority, and it was never an inconvenience... she always answered or called back right away, any day, any time." He went on to explain that he himself had no specific knowledge or background in colostomy care or management, so caring for the appliance and handling the supplies was a new endeavor for him. He stated, "Josephine taught us step by step, day by day, and she never looked at her watch or rushed us. She focused on us completely and made us feel like we were most important. I’m sure she treats all her patients this way, but it was very comforting to us."

He said Josephine’s caring attitude and compassion were overwhelming. She is dedicated and organized, and she does not just go through the moves as directed in any book. He stated, "When there were issues pertaining to the colostomy or output, and the supplies and follow-up appointments, she sat down with us at the kitchen table and proceeded to make calls until the problems were all taken care of, in real-time." He added, "Josephine follows the rules as a professional but adds real care and soul to her work. I will have this colostomy reversed, but I will never forget this experience in my life, and therefore, Josephine will be fondly ingrained in my memory and my soul forever." He also said if he or a family member ever needs home care services in the future, he will recommend VNAHG and request Josephine as the nurse.

I am so proud of Josephine and truly grateful for her contributions to this organization. It is my distinct honor to nominate her for the DAISY Award this year!