Sarah Sweeney
September 2025
Sarah
Sweeney
,
BSN, RN
Medical ICU
UVA Health University Medical Center
Charlottesville
,
VA
United States
In the midst of uncertainty, struggles, and many tense moments, Sarah handled each situation with grace, wisdom, and fierce compassion.
My father-in-law, B, was diagnosed with duodenal adenocarcinoma. We did all of the things as recommended by his oncologist, all while holding onto our faith and remaining optimistic through the chemo, Whipple surgery, and various follow-up visits.
Unfortunately, after a period of clear scans, we started to learn about a recurrence of the cancer. Several oncology visits and a few scans later, we knew we'd have an uphill battle to fight. Chemo was recommended again and scheduled.
My father-in-law has never been one to be fully open about his concerns and/or changes in symptoms. However, he finally spoke up when he started experiencing some acutely worsening symptoms. This led to an immediate ED evaluation, admission, and an unfortunate rapid decompensation. He was moved from an acute care room to the MICU after a MET call. Our family pulled together and braced for the worst. We knew the end result from his unfortunate diagnosis, but we weren't prepared for how quickly he would go downhill. For a period of time, everything seemed very dark, and the unknown was heartbreaking.
A ray of light named Sarah entered my father-in-law's room as we were simply trying to process each moment while preparing for the worst. In the midst of uncertainty, struggles, and many tense moments, Sarah handled each situation with grace, wisdom, and fierce compassion. She advocated intensely but also communicated with our family and quickly became a part of ours in some of the toughest moments. We laughed together, were comforted during the tougher moments, and covered with empathy. We were able to openly discuss our thoughts and collaborate as a true team with one goal- to ensure my father-in-law was kept comfortable and that his wishes were completely respected and honored. Sarah made every request happen and advocated intensely.
I can't begin to find the words to thank Sarah enough for everything. Sarah, please know that you are a true light in the darkness and an incredible nurse who makes a tremendous difference! Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for everything. You will always be remembered and treasured. Even through our dark days, you brought the light.
Unfortunately, after a period of clear scans, we started to learn about a recurrence of the cancer. Several oncology visits and a few scans later, we knew we'd have an uphill battle to fight. Chemo was recommended again and scheduled.
My father-in-law has never been one to be fully open about his concerns and/or changes in symptoms. However, he finally spoke up when he started experiencing some acutely worsening symptoms. This led to an immediate ED evaluation, admission, and an unfortunate rapid decompensation. He was moved from an acute care room to the MICU after a MET call. Our family pulled together and braced for the worst. We knew the end result from his unfortunate diagnosis, but we weren't prepared for how quickly he would go downhill. For a period of time, everything seemed very dark, and the unknown was heartbreaking.
A ray of light named Sarah entered my father-in-law's room as we were simply trying to process each moment while preparing for the worst. In the midst of uncertainty, struggles, and many tense moments, Sarah handled each situation with grace, wisdom, and fierce compassion. She advocated intensely but also communicated with our family and quickly became a part of ours in some of the toughest moments. We laughed together, were comforted during the tougher moments, and covered with empathy. We were able to openly discuss our thoughts and collaborate as a true team with one goal- to ensure my father-in-law was kept comfortable and that his wishes were completely respected and honored. Sarah made every request happen and advocated intensely.
I can't begin to find the words to thank Sarah enough for everything. Sarah, please know that you are a true light in the darkness and an incredible nurse who makes a tremendous difference! Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for everything. You will always be remembered and treasured. Even through our dark days, you brought the light.