Zack Franzen, RN, BSN

I would like to recognize Zack Franzen, RN, for providing extraordinary care during one of the most frightening moments in my life.

In the early morning, I arrived in the ED after the rupture of a known arteriovenous malformation in my right occipital lobe. My vision was significantly impacted, as well as having a horrible headache, being confused, and fearful of the unknown. I was not completely blind, but everything I saw was distorted, disorienting, and frightening. I am also a registered nurse and was well aware of my diagnosis and potential complications.

 I underwent radiation treatment to “shrink” the AVM. The following month, just weeks prior to my hemorrhagic stroke, Zack cared for me after I had been sent to the ED with concerns about potential seizure activity. He knew my history and immediately sprang into action. Because I work within the Interventional Radiology Department of Sanford Bemidji Hospital, he made my chart confidential, quickly got me into a room, and expedited the process of obtaining CT imaging. He was professional, efficient, and calm throughout the entire experience.

What I remember most, however, was not the speed or efficiency of his care – it was his compassion. After my CT scan, as he wheeled me back to the Emergency Department, he stopped, knelt to my level, and gently explained what the scan had shown. I knew the CT would show bleeding – I can still remember the exact moment when it ruptured; the pain was unlike anything I have experienced; however, in that moment – as a patient and not a nurse – I was overwhelmed, in denial, and felt so helpless.

Zack could have simply delivered the information to me, placed me back into the room with my husband, and moved on. But he understood; he sensed what I may be feeling, and instead, he took the time to connect with me as a person. He spoke calmly, honestly, and with genuine concern. The simple act of kneeling down and meeting me where I was made all the difference. I felt cared for, respected, and informed during a moment when everything felt overwhelming and uncertain.

He continued this compassion as he brought me back to the room where my husband was nervously waiting. As plans were made for LifeFlight to transport me and for acceptance by the Sanford Fargo Neuro team, Zack ensured that my husband knew exactly what to expect, where to go, and how to meet me at the Sanford Hospital in Fargo.

Zack exemplifies what nursing is truly about. He combined clinical excellence with compassion; professionalism with humanity, and efficiency with genuine personal connection. During one of the worst days of my life, he made me feel more than just a patient. He made me feel like a friend or family member whose well-being truly mattered.

I spent a week in the Neuro ICU, underwent procedures to stop the bleeding, and had several subsequent scans. I am still adapting to my deficits; my life is forever changed, but I continue to work with a wonderful rehab team and anticipate more scans and procedures in the future.

The last several months have been the most challenging in my life. The road to recovery after stroke continues to be long and unpredictable. It has been full of obstacles that I never knew I could face. It has been emotionally and physically exhausting and overwhelming. There are several days and moments that are still missing, blurred, or cloudy in my memory; however, I will never forget the care Zack provided.

I cannot think of anyone more deserving of recognition