Shila Newman 2, RN, OCN, ONN-CG

I received the devastating news that my DLBCL lymphoma had relapsed, only a few months after going into remission. Shila Newman immediately jumped into action. Knowing what I was facing, she reached out right away to ensure I was okay and to ask what support I needed. She quickly scheduled my PET scan, even calling other hospitals to find an earlier opening when my cancer center’s machine was being replaced.

Shortly afterward, she registered me for a Leukemia and Lymphoma Society grant, helping me receive financial assistance. When the PET scan came back positive for recurrence, Shila contacted my doctor directly to make sure I heard the news quickly and could discuss next steps the same day, sparing me the anxiety of waiting. The very next day, while my doctor was out of the office, she proactively submitted my results to the radiologist to prepare for the biopsy, so everything was already in motion when he returned. When the pulmonologist’s office initially scheduled my consult nearly a month away, Shila once again went to work. She called multiple locations to find earlier openings and informed my doctor of the delay, prompting him to personally contact the specialist. Thanks to her persistence, my consult was moved up by a full week.

Even after the biopsy, she followed up to check on how I was doing, arranged a visit with the nurse practitioner to manage my symptoms, and coordinated with my doctor to have medication ready in the meantime.

Shila continues to be my point of contact today. Her consistent kindness, professionalism, and dedication make her an extraordinary nurse and person. She doesn’t just do her job; she anticipates needs, shows deep empathy, and ensures every patient knows they’re cared for. I truly hope she never changes roles, because her compassion and commitment have made one of the hardest journeys of my life a little easier to face.

Note: This is Shila's 2nd DAISY Award!