I had major abdominal surgery and I experienced complications in the early morning hours that following Sunday. I was untreated and undiagnosed until Tessa Nelson began her shift that morning. She immediately jumped into action, asking me if I had a history of heart issues and sought out a heart monitor; the first monitor wasn't working correctly, and she instantly found a replacement and was assessing my situation. Though other nurses, an anesthesiologist and someone from the surgeon's team had visited while I was experiencing symptoms, Tessa was the only person who promptly took action on my symptoms. Within a half hour, all thanks to her alone, I was being moved to a more critical care unit, and it was determined that I had been experiencing atrial fibrillation.

To my mind Tessa did nothing short of saving my life, and it was because she focused on me and the symptoms I relayed and was thinking holistically about my medical history rather than focusing solely on the surgery I'd just had. While this was probably a typical day at the office to her, it was a godsend to me and I am very grateful and appreciative of her actions.

During the remainder of my stay, she even took time out of her busy schedule to visit with me. While I of course thanked her in person, I think she should receive greater recognition for such superior care. She will be a heroine in my heart forever. In my opinion, Tessa Nelson exemplifies the traits of an outstanding nurse and is well-deserving of this award.