My family met Sherard before our loved one did. As Sherard administered his first Plasma Exchange, it was evident that she was a calming spirit. In the room, my family prayed, sang, talked, watched, and asked question after question about what was happening to him, what the machine was doing, and how it would affect him. She had a quiet confidence that stood out and reassured us that although we didn’t understand the how and why of what was happening to our loved one, we understood that she knew what she was doing and not only could, but would answer any question we had concerning the procedure no matter how many times we repeated a question or sat in silence watching her every move.

When he was taken off sedation and intubation, she started interacting with him directly. My husband, who's always been quick-witted, sharp, and on point, went straight in with Sherard. Assessing his limits with her, asking question after question as she began to shed light on his new condition. Explaining each new term. She redirected him as she educated him on everything that was happening. She took the time to explain each medicine. She encouraged him to advocate for himself by understanding everything that was going on around him. She listened to him when the introduction of a new medication made him feel strange. Sherard encouraged him to share any new symptoms he was experiencing with the doctors. She collaborated with him until they could identify what needed to be adjusted during his treatments. She laughed with us. She shared her time and knowledge.

We believe and know in our heart that Sherard was and still is a Godsend. She listened patiently and softly corrected us when we got mixed up on the specifics of his disorder. She took the fear out of not understanding his condition and gave us the power of knowledge. Sherard even indulged us when we started to treat her like family and got maybe a little too familiar! I don’t know what we would have done without Sherard. Her professionalism is outstanding. Her compassion is awesome. Her bedside manner is impeccable. She left an impression on anyone who was in the room with her. There are not enough words to describe how grateful we are to Sherard for all she has done for my husband and our family.