As Nurses Week comes to a close, we want to share a story that speaks to the heart of nursing. When Keegan was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was her nurses who carried her through—with compassion, hope, and humankindness. They changed her life. So much so, she became one. Today, Keegan is a nurse at Virginia Mason Franciscan health, guiding cancer patients with the same light that once guided her. This is the impact of a nurse. This is why we celebrate them. Your care changes everything. In 2014, at just 36 years old, Keegan Faust received a life-altering diagnosis that she never would have predicted. A devoted advocate for self-breast exams, she had always kept a close eye on her health. However, that year was different—she had recently married, was house-hunting, and facing challenges while trying to start a family. Amidst all this, she had let her routine self-checks slip, until she noticed that something felt off. Her gut told her that it was more than just a simple concern. One week before beginning fertility treatments, Keegan voiced her worries to her obstetrician who recommended a mammogram. The results brought news no one ever wants to hear: she had estrogen-positive breast cancer. Keegan’s life changed in an instant. She underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and a double mastectomy—all while continuing to push forward with her personal and professional goals. While undergoing chemo, she made the decision to go back to school hoping that she could turn her painful experience into something positive for others. She knew she wanted to make a difference and guide people through their darkest moments like she had experienced from her care team, so she pursued her passion for nursing and earned her nursing degree in 2018. Keegan and her husband officially made the move from their home in California to the Pacific Northwest three years ago, bringing her parents with her. She began working at St. Francis Hospital, and she fell in love with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, the team and patients. She now devotes each day to serving cancer patients and her unique perspective as a survivor strengthens the bond she shares with them. Breast cancer and most cancers can strike at any time, in any form, and in anyone—even those who have no family history or do not have the “high risk” factors. Keegan’s story is a powerful reminder of why screenings and early detection are so important. She encourages everyone—staff, patients, and loved ones—to take the time for regular mammograms and breast exams, and to speak with their healthcare provider to understand their individual risk factors. The earlier cancer is detected, the greater the chances for successful treatment. (fb)

As Nurses Week comes to a close, our gratitude continues every day. To every nurse at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and beyond: Thank you for showing up with skill, compassion and dedication through the most challenging and beautiful moments in healthcare. You advocate for patients when they're most vulnerable, celebrate with families in their joy, and provide comfort during life's most difficult transitions. Your expertise isn't just in procedures and medications, it's in the reassuring touch, the attentive listening, and the unwavering presence that makes patients feel seen and cared for. The impact you make extends far beyond hospital walls, clinic hallways and treatment rooms. You transform lives, one patient at a time. (fb)