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"We can only imagine that she will continue to change the lives of other patients and families in her lifetime."

Two fathers landed in 4 Central — then ended up in the Intensive Care Unit — but 4 Central's Jensaha Johnson, Certified Nurse Assistant, didn't forget about the patients.

Now, Johnson has been surprised with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award by UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and BEE Award Committee Vice Chair Victoria Gibbons.

Johnson was nominated by the family members of the two fathers:

• "My father entered UVA Health more than a month ago and my sisters and mother and I visit every day to spend time with him. We got to know the day and night nurses very well, especially in the first two weeks when he was staying on 4 Central and we were all very tired and worried.
  
  "Jenasha stuck out to us as not only caring for our father, but for us as well. When my Dad was moved to the Intesive Care Unit (ICU), she wrote a beautiful card to him that still hangs in his room, and when we see her in the cafeteria, she remembers us and gives us hugs and asked for updates. My Dad is out of the ICU and on a different floor; however, Jenasha continues to visit him when her shifts end. Nominating her for this award is our best way of saying a deep and incredibly meaningful thank you for being there for him and us during such a hard time. We can only imagine that she will continue to change the lives of other patients and families in her lifetime.
  
  "I am here to express that Jenasha is truly my guardian angel. My father has been at UVA for six weeks due to a series of unfortunate events, and every time I felt like crying, Jenasha appeared in his room."
  
  
• "My father spent nearly two weeks in 4 Central before being transferred to the ICU. Jenasha dedicated many days to caring for my father and supporting my family. Unfortunately, my father's condition took a sad turn, and he experienced septic shock. While I sat in the ICU, wondering if my father would survive, Jenasha appeared at the door. Even while on a ventilator, my father recognized her voice and gave her a high five. On that occasion, she brought a signed note from the staff at 4 Central wishing him a speedy recovery.
  
  "The following day, my father underwent a procedure to have a drain tube inserted. I was the only family member present that day, and I needed to drive back to Virginia Beach. As I contemplated leaving my father, Jenasha appeared in the door once more. She walked me to the parking garage and offered to pray for my father. Fast forward a few weeks, my father is still in the hospital, and I was crying when she walked in again to visit him.
  
  "I want to express my gratitude for staff members such as Jenasha who played a critical role in helping Dad continue his fight for recovery. It felt as though God sent her to watch over him and our family. I am eternally thankful for her constant reassurance that Dad is strong and will improve. She truly deserves this award and so much more. Thank you, Jenasha!"

Know a Deserving Team Member?

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award.

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another. Submit a nomination.