Having worked in the health field for 50 years, it has been a long time, if EVER, that I have come across a Nurse as attentive and mindful as Rhonda Weinzapfel, who works in the Infusion Clinic at Roudebush VAMC; more so, not only from a patient perspective but also from a Veteran’s perspective.

Rhonda leads with her heart when it comes to caring for her patients. Prior to my arrival for my infusion, I had been having respiratory issues and was compromised with my breathing. Rhonda’s quick thinking and calm demeanor during my emergency made all the difference. She immediately called the ED, explained my situation, and expedited everything so that, once I arrived at the ED, I was seen immediately. I am positive that without Rhonda’s intervention on that day, my outcome would’ve been much worse, as I would have left the VA thinking I could get better at home.

I was hospitalized for 3 days and given IV steroids and antibiotics. I’m thankful for Rhonda’s expertise, empathy, and compassion. More impressive is that she sought me out in my hospital room to check up on me and to chat and brighten my day. Rhonda’s kind-heartedness and willingness to go the extra mile are a great testament to the power of civility in an age of distraction.

Now more than ever, the medical field needs professionals who treat patients with empathy and kindness; moreover, we need more heart in healthcare. Rhonda exemplifies all these attributes and more. I hope you realize what a gem you have in Rhonda. A whole garden of thanks would not be too much for Rhonda! As she is a cheerful giver, this type of giver is the one God prizes. -Veteran Patient