At JPS Health Network, our commitment to our patients does not stop when we leave our shifts for the day. Instead, our team members always dedicate themselves to service. Our team courageously speaks out in emergencies, no matter the time or where they are.
Shaw’s Patio is a local favorite among JPS team members. On the evening of October 16, team members could be found enjoying a meal and live music put on by local musician Tommy Luke.
“The three of us were talking, laughing, and just catching up with each other. It was open mic night, and we were enjoying listening to the band play,” said Kakita Edwards, MBA, MSW, Manager, Psychiatric Nursing.
However, in an unexpected turn of events, three JPS team members found themselves putting their medical skills to use. After Luke had finished his opening performance, he began to have a seizure. Without a second thought, our team members rushed to his aid.
“You know, JPS is just great. I don’t know what to say except that I’m grateful that the nurses were there that night."
“Out of my peripheral, I saw him begin to fall. I heard a noise and knew he needed medical attention. Immediately, we all jumped up to help. It was honestly instinctive, and I don’t think any of us second guessed it,” said Melanie Lacy, MSN, RN Clinical Manager, House Operations.
JPS team members were praised by patrons of the restaurant for their immediate effort. In a moment where serious injury could have occurred, three JPS nurses demonstrated what it means to be exceptional.
“A village of caring individuals makes the world a better place. Whether we are on the clock or not, we care for individuals in need. I don’t consider myself a hero. I’m just doing what needs to be done because I care about this community,” said Lacy.
Selophine Njotu, Manager, Psychiatric Clinical Services, echoed her remarks.
“Quick responses save lives. It doesn’t matter where I am or who it is, my loyalty to this profession is constant. At that moment, he needed us, and we were there,” Njotu said.
Luke has recovered from his emergency and is planning to continue doing what he loves – making music. He returned to JPS after his discharge to offer his praise to the nurses that saved his life. “You know, JPS is just great. I don’t know what to say except that I’m grateful that the nurses were there that night,” Luke said.