On Tuesday, I appeared as medically directed, to the Infusion Center on the 7th floor of Sanford Health, for my 24th round of chemotherapy in a continuing argument with cancer. I was in the care of RN Hertz. As always, she reviewed my recent history from May. She said, "J, I don't think you're supposed to be here today. You'll be receiving the same chemo medications as last week and you're not supposed to get one, in particular, two weeks in a row". RN Hertz excused herself and went to check further. She was correct and I was told I could leave. As I left, RN Hertz accompanied me to the waiting/check-in area for the unit, where I thanked her personally for the professionalism and extraordinary care she exhibited to ensure my best interests were first and foremost.
When I got home and checked this matter further, including speaking to a recently retired physician friend well acquainted with oncology and chemotherapy, when told of the intended medication, the response was immediate, "You would likely have been a pretty sick boy for a few days. That was a nice catch by the nurse".
After hearing that, I knew RN Hertz was deserving of much more than a fist-bump, and thank you. That's when I called and spoke to one of Nica's supervisors. She agreed whole-heartedly.
Nica Hertz represents the quality, integrity, and professionalism so highly regarded for Registered Nurses everywhere, and Sanford Health.