Diane Wellman Gordon believes in giving credit where credit is due, acknowledging that one small piece of encouragement holds the potential to completely transform someone’s day.

Diane began her career in healthcare, working as a nurse’s aide and later an LPN, before pursuing work in higher education at Stark State College. The gratitude she received from patients and their families reminded her of the “why” of her work, and the compliments she received still stick with her.

Like many of us, Diane’s life was altered by the COVID-19 pandemic; she lost several loved ones including her husband, who passed away in 2020. Diane has endured her own health challenges too, which most recently led her to be hospitalized at Aultman Orrville Hospital. Reflecting on the experience, Diane was overwhelmed by the incredible care she received from start to finish.

In April 2023, after persistent nausea and physical sickness, Diane was taken by ambulance to Aultman Orrville Hospital. She was admitted for additional testing and remained in the hospital for three days. Diane shared that every staff member treated hear with kindness and respect: “From Molly who helped admit me to John and Nick in radiology to individuals working in housekeeping and maintenance,” she said.

During a routine stress test, Diane experienced a negative reaction to one of the medications administered. Several doctors and nurses rushed into the room to help. Diane recalled how calm and professional they were, which helped her to feel at ease. In particular, she mentioned the kindness she saw in the eyes of Janeene, a nurse manager from the emergency department – even through all the layers of personal protective equipment.

“I was so astounded by the care and concern of everyone there, even people who weren’t assigned to care for me,” she said. “I’ve never had an experience like I had at Aultman Orrville Hospital.”

After she was monitored and received clear test results, Diane was released to go home. She complimented her discharge nurse, Helena, for providing exceptional care that day, even helping connect her to transportation. Since settling in at home, Diane has followed up with her physicians and is enjoying her daily life.

Diane felt compelled to thank her caretakers because she knows the power of encouragement.

“They often say, ‘What goes around comes around.’ The team at Aultman Orrville is fabulous, and I wanted to share that with them and with others. They were proficient, and I was in great hands,” she said. “I couldn’t send candy or flowers to the staff … because they would go to every department! Next time I need hospital care, I’m returning to Aultman Orrville Hospital.”