Dr. Carolyn Jarvis, author and professor at Illinois Wesleyan University, wrote “The character of a nurse is just as important as the knowledge she possesses.” The value of character is undoubtedly significant in our Power of One culture at MLH and the associates that possess that character impact lives both inside and outside the walls of our facilities.

Today, I would like to recognize an associate who possesses and recently demonstrated that character within her community. On Sunday Misty Lovejoy, RN, and her daughter were enjoying a fun, sun-filled day at the neighborhood pool. The relaxing afternoon suddenly changed when a girl at the pool starts screaming out that someone needs CPR. Misty looked in the direction of the call and saw a woman slumped over in her chair. Without hesitation, Misty runs over to the unconscious woman and works with a bystander to move the woman to the ground for potential CPR. The lift was not an easy one. The unconscious woman was heavy and the pool environment, without lift equipment or other life-saving devices, was not ideal, but Misty was not deterred from her mission. The unconscious woman was safely moved to the ground and Misty checked for a pulse. Luckily, a pulse was present and the woman began to rouse shortly after being laid in a supine position. Misty stayed with the woman until paramedics arrived to assume care. Misty’s quick action that day potentially prevented a more significant medical event and it demonstrated the character of MLH’s nurses to those present. Please recognize Misty for this selfless act and her commitment to improving every life she touches.