The Power of Nurses: 30+ Years of Care in Action
During National Nurses Week 2026 (May 6–12), HaysMed is honored to spotlight nurses with 30+ years of experience, professionals who have witnessed change, faced challenges head-on, and continued to lead with compassion. Their stories reflect the true power of nursing and the lasting impact it has on lives, families, and our community.
Critical care nurses lead through action. They combine advanced clinical knowledge with teamwork, compassion, and resilience to guide patients through life-changing moments. Their impact is felt not only in outcomes, but in the trust and confidence they bring to every patient and family they serve.” -Brian Pfannenstiel, HaysMed Director of Critical Care
What role have you played most often in your unit: teacher, problem-solver, peacemaker, cheerleader, or all of the above?
“For many years I have lectured and trained the Radiology tech students from FHSU on Infection control, obtain vital signs, contrast reactions issues, vasovagal signs and treatment, IV starts and treatment of infiltrations with contrast. I have worked with many different areas of HMC to provide the safest, most efficient, and best quality of care to our patients. I have assisted the Radiologist in troubling issues and work within our modalities and Inpatient units to coordinated procedures for patients. I try each day to acknowledge and thank my co-workers for their assistance, caring, and efforts to provide the best patient care and image of our department.”
What patient interaction has stayed with you the longest?
“There are so many experiences I have enjoyed over the years with our patients. One that stands out to me is a patient I assisted during a procedure and then I checked on him the next day to see how he was doing. He was so appreciative of how we listened to him, answered his questions, showed him compassion and understanding, that he brought flowers to me, mailed me a card, and then reached out to thank me via phone call. This is so rewarding to me and helps me feel appreciated every day at HMC”
Would you rather have unlimited chocolate or unlimited coffee?
“Dark Chocolate - but cold-flavored coffee is good also.”
What makes HaysMed feel like home to you?
“The Imaging techs in Radiology and our office staff are willing to work together and assist or just listen to each other as we share stories, etc. We do group events that give us time to visit and celebrate together. We can share our personal stories and just have FUN. There's always a snack to be found in our department as some of us love to bake! It's rewarding to me to walk through the halls and different departments saying "Good Morning" or "Hello" to others and then they reply back or just to help someone find their way to a certain area.”