Jane is an exemplary nurse who makes a tremendous impact on the patients she cares for. She makes our patients feel so special as she celebrates their successes, makes them laugh on hard days, and supports patients and family members when they are struggling.

To give an example, a patient with terminal cancer was struggling with his decision to continue chemo treatments as they made him feel terrible. Jane spent extra time with him to listen to his concerns, validate his emotions, and encouraged him to make the choice that was right for him.

In another instance, a patient had a history of having severe side effects from her chemo infusions shortly after she would leave the cancer center. The doctor believed she was having a sensitivity to the cold caused by the chemo which was quite distressing to the patient. Jane took over this patient and encouraged her to stay after chemo treatment finished so she wouldn’t be alone when the side effects occur. After a while, the patient began to shake, had jaw tightness, and had difficulty swallowing/speaking. Jane reassured the patient that she would stay with her. Jane wrapped her head to toe in hot blankets and fed her sips of hot chocolate to warm her from the inside out. Jane stayed with the patient until she was feeling better. The patient was so thankful she didn’t have to be alone during this episode. 

Jane is such an asset to our team at St. Anthony. Our patients, their families, and our coworkers are so lucky to have Jane Hackfort.