Therese went above and beyond for a patient who had been in an automobile accident and was unconscious in ICU with a broken leg. The patient was a refugee from another country, didn't speak English (and couldn't speak because he was intubated). Therese went through the papers he had on him, found contact names and numbers and made numerous phone calls until she was able to speak with someone who put her in touch with the patient's wife. By the time Therese spoke to the wife, it had been over 24 hours since she had heard from her husband. You can imagine the relief the wife must have felt to know her husband was alive. That relief was evident when the wife showed up to the hospital and the patient saw her for the first time. There were tears of joy and relief.
Therese continued to work with interpreters, folks from the African Consulate and the refugee community to ensure the family was kept apprised of the patient's situation. The patient is the sole provider for his wife and children so Therese wanted to make sure the family would have everything they needed as the patient was in the hospital for a couple of weeks then would go to rehab for a couple of more weeks.
Therese really stepped up to the plate when the patient and his family were unable to locate the $600 cash and food stamps he had on him in the car. The patient was planning to pay the month's rent and had also received his food stamps for the month (this was right before Thanksgiving). Therese again made numerous phone calls to the EMS crew that brought the patient in, the ER staff, ICU staff and hospital security to try and track the money and food stamps down. She came up empty handed. She next made calls to the State and again to the consulate and refugee center to see if the food stamps would be re-issued or if they could do anything. The answer - NO. The stamps could not be re-issued and the refugee center did not have the means to help. So, as a last resort, Therese approached the Good Samaritan Foundation to see what, if anything could be done. The Foundation was able to give $700 to the patient and his family. When this was presented to the patient, he broke down in tears. He was so humble and gracious and most appreciative.
It seemed like the right thing to do and Therese would not rest until something was done! She would have given the patient her own money if she had to. This is why I believe Therese is a DAISY!