Shea Foley
August 2025
Shea
Foley
,
BSN, RN, CCRN
Trauma Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Penn Presbyterian Medical Center
Philadelphia
,
PA
United States

 

 

 

Shea gave my dad the best care possible. We will never forget the way she handled my dad's care, as though she were caring for one of her loved ones.
My father was in a tragic motorcycle accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury, among many other injuries. This was one of the most devastating things to happen to our family to date, as we faced pain and uncertainty beyond what we had ever known before. However, we were lucky enough to have a nurse in Shea Foley.

Shea went above and beyond for my family during the most difficult time of our lives. She made the unbearable slightly more tolerable by being who she is - a good person who genuinely cares for her patients and their families as human beings. Shea gave my dad the best care possible. We will never forget the way she handled my dad's care, as though she were caring for one of her loved ones. She consistently checked his medication, ensuring he was cared for appropriately. It is notable that while my father could not speak, she was still able to understand what he was telling her through his vital signs.

In addition to the "traditional" care nurses provide, she showed us incredible empathy and patience that will last a lifetime. She listened to countless stories, looked at thousands of pictures, and hit the nail on the head when sharing who she thought my father was. She turned down our consistent apologies for distracting her, taking up her time, and breaking down. She met us with reassurance, sharing how she loves to know who her patients were before they met her, and she truly showed that she meant it. She showed compassion and made sure my dad maintained his dignity throughout the process. She was very attentive, kind, and everything you can hope for in a nurse who is helping you through your hardest day. Shea also showed an incredible connection. She showed us why she does this and made us feel less lonely as she cared for Dad.

Unfortunately, we had to make the hardest decision we've ever made, but we were thankful we had Shea by our sides. We were heartbroken. But Shea reminded us of the man we had been telling her so much about, reassuring us that we were being selfless and channeling Dad as we made the impossible decision. She also kept him comfortable until the end.

In summary, Shea embodies all the qualities of a true nurse who does what she does because she wants to help people. She showed connection, empathy, and the ultimate not only to her patient, my dad, but also to our entire family. We will remember you forever, Shea, for going above and beyond for us. Thank you!