Give to LGH

August 2012

Donald Walk, RN

Radiation Oncology

Donald Walk"Don is one of the most caring, intelligent, intuitive and patient-advocating nurses I've ever met. He is the perfect representation of what Lowell General Hospital is about – patients first, above all else." This statement is just one of the many that fellow coworkers said about Donald Walk, our August Star Performer of the Month.

Don has been a proud staff member of the Lowell General nursing staff since 2001, caring for our critical care patients in many departments, including the ED, MS3, and the Cancer Center. Currently, he works in the Radiation Oncology Department providing education, counseling and support to our Cancer Center patients, answering their questions and supporting the management of treatment side effects. He also connects patients to other members of the interdisciplinary team. His co-workers note that he is a positive influence on everyone around him and he is continually thanking his fellow staff for their hard work.

"Don is well-respected by his peers as well as the physicians who are assisted by his diligent efforts and willingness to go the extra mile for each patient," says Janet Griffin, RN, clinical manager for Radiation Oncology. "Don has been a wonderful addition to The Cancer Center. Every day it is apparent that he truly loves what he does."

Don routinely goes above and beyond what is expected in caring for patients, always treating them with dignity and respect. He will take extra time to answer any and all questions before, during and after treatments, and remembers the smallest details about their everyday lives. His wife, Kimberly Walk, R.Ph, who works in The Cancer Center Pharmacy, said that Don is constantly recognized outside of the hospital by former patients or family members. For example, a patient recently walked up to him in the mall and started crying, saying that she will always remember him for the incredible compassion and care he showed to her mother and family. Kim remarked that she has files full of appreciation letters and cards from patients that Don has received over the years in gratitude for the incredible care he gives his patients. He is so well respected that patients seek him out for their follow-up appointments.

Don resides in Westford with his wife Kim and two sons, Donald and Bradley. When not at work, he can be found at a hockey rink or baseball field watching his son's games, or spending summer time with his family on the beaches in Maine.

Congratulations, Don. You're a Star!

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