Leah James
May 2022
Leah
James
,
BSN, RN
Emergency Department
Texoma Medical Center
Denison
,
TX
United States

 

 

 

Leah James moonlights there in Durant. She knows their situations and understands their needs. She offered to drive through the chaos of the weather and help them coordinate sending patients here to TMC.
One night in March 2022, tornadoes touched down in the Texoma Communities. Hitting both Texas as well as Oklahoma, the property devastation indicated human casualty could be heavy. The TMC ER was placed on alert and the Administrative Supervisor activated internal resources. Practiced, efficient response came quickly, securing the “stand ready” status. TMC became ready to take whatever they needed to. Word then came that Alliance Hospital of Durant Oklahoma, was becoming overwhelmed with patients. A quick assessment determined we were ready to receive at least 10 critical patients. One of our nurses here at TMC, Leah James, overheard the conversation the TMC house supervisor was having with the Durant house supervisor. Confusion and uncertainty were evident with the disaster they were facing. Leah explained she understood and had knowledge that the Durant house supervisor was a “traveler” house replacement. Leah James moonlights there in Durant. She knows their situations and understands their needs. She offered to drive through the chaos of the weather and help them coordinate sending patients here to TMC. Believing she could serve her community, not just one facility, her selfless offer was accepted. Leah headed out to assist the Durant facility. We are TMC strong. Sometimes that means we are serving other hospitals and other areas of the Texoma community, lending our resources and strength that serves the human community. No matter where the geographical boundaries happen to be. Leah James, RN served her profession and calling as her compassion for the human element demanded. In the face of a potentially dangerous situation. Stepping into the chaos, she served her community with courage and grace.