Caring Together: A Patient’s Gratitude for her Shore Guardian Angels

Over the past four years, Mary McGuckin, Director of Planned Giving and Development, has had the privilege of getting to know Nancy F., a retired high-school English teacher and proud dog mom to her spirited Cairn terrier, Dylan. Despite receiving care at some of the nation's leading hospitals, Nancy will always consider Shore Medical Center her #1 hospital.

"There's something different about Shore," Nancy says. "There's a warmth and a comfort here. Everyone tries so hard to help you get better, and explains things to you as though you're on their level."

For two decades, Nancy has been receiving regular infusion therapy at Shore, forming a deep bond with her infusion nurses, Todd Mitchell, RN, and Susan Wade, RN, who have been by her side since day one. She trusts them implicitly and appreciates their unwavering commitment to her care.

"Just the other day, my port adhesive began irritating my skin," Nancy shared. "They worked tirelessly and successfully to find a better solution for the problem."

When Nancy experienced some serious health complications a year and a half ago, leading to surgery and stays in the ICU and 5 Hayes unit, Nancy's gratitude for her Shore family grew stronger. She decided to honor the 19 caregivers who were most pivotal in her journey through Shore's Guardian Angel program. This program allows patients and families to thank exceptional caregivers with a donation in their honor, and Mary has the privilege of presenting each award.

"Nancy's heartfelt letters and recognitions left a lasting impact on every single person," Mary shared. "One radiologist was completely surprised when I presented him with his recognition, exclaiming, 'What? Me? I need to record this; my wife will never believe me!'"

Nancy says, "I think the world of them. They are lifesavers and incredibly accomplished. I had no idea that my gesture would impact them so much."

Nancy and Mary recently reflected on all the people who made a difference in her care, many who are pictured above with Nancy, seated (center), at Shore's December 12 Guardian Angel pinning ceremony. Her gratitude is endless, and she just loves to talk about them.

"When you're vulnerable, and all these people step in to care for you, it's an incredible feeling. All of my Guardian Angels would do anything to help me feel better. If I had the money, I'd build a building for the hospital-but I give what I can because this place has been so good to me. It's my way of giving back."

If you've experienced extraordinary care at Shore, consider honoring a caregiver through our Guardian Angel program, like Nancy did. This program not only recognizes our staff for their exceptional efforts, but also helps ensure we can continue meeting the healthcare needs of our community.

To honor a caregiver through the Guardian Angel program, please complete the online donation form here. If you have any questions about celebrating your caregivers, please contact Mary McGuckin at 609-653-4657 or by email at [email protected].