I am a general surgeon who was asked to consult on a very critically ill cardiothoracic surgery ICU patient. When I arrived first thing in the morning at the unit to evaluate the patient, Lisa was very busy administering multiple medications, including pressors, concurrently to keep the patient alive, all the while helping me evaluate the patient for possible life-saving emergency surgery. Throughout the morning, she relentlessly tended to the patient who needed minute-by-minute evaluation and treatment. The decision was finally made to get the patient ready for surgery and Lisa continued to perform her duties professionally and with a smile on her face despite the change in plans.

Upon return from surgery, she was ready to take over care of the patient and although the patient had a critical prognosis and ultimately succumbed to his disease shortly thereafter, despite hours of constant care, she was able to be compassionate with family and provide them with comfort at the end of life of their loved one. Without her help that day, we would not have been able to arrive at a diagnosis and provide closure for the family in a manner that provided dignity for the patient. Throughout the day, she constantly worked with the medical and surgical team to provide the patient with the best care and make a true impact.