The Parkview Health Foundation Guardian Angel award recognizes those who go above and beyond in providing exceptional care. Each honoree receives a custom-made lapel pin and certificate to symbolize their patient's appreciation. Recently, Shawn and Brooke Kinzer nominated Haley Erb, NP, for her life-saving actions during what began as a routine weight management appointment.
Shawn's health journey
When mowing the lawn last fall, Shawn began experiencing unusual shortness of breath. "It wasn't anything like I had felt before," Shawn recalled. "I was really struggling to get air into my lungs, but I chalked it up to maybe overexerting myself or eating some unhealthy treats during my daughter's birthday weekend."
Despite the abnormal sensation, Shawn continued his day as usual. That evening, however, his shortness of breath returned, raising concern from his wife, Brooke, who suggested he go to the emergency room. "I kind of brushed it off. I didn't think anything bad was happening, but she told me I need to at least check with my provider the next day."
The start of Shawn's appointment with Parkview Weight Management went as expected, and he was relieved to see that he was still progressing towards his goals. As the intake nurse ran through routine questions, he debated whether to mention his recent symptoms. "I almost didn't say anything," Shawn confessed. "But then I thought, Brooke's going to kill me if I don't mention this." Reluctantly, he explained to the intake nurse how he had been feeling, and she relayed the information to the nurse practitioner, Haley.
Shawn said Haley's approachable demeanor put him at ease, and made it easier to elaborate more on his symptoms. He questioned if it could be a side effect of his medication. Without hesitation, Haley grabbed her stethoscope and listened to his lungs and heart.
"I could see something was different in her face when she was listening," Shawn said. Haley left the room for a moment and returned. "She told me we had to cut my appointment short and that I needed to go to the emergency room immediately because it sounded like I was in AFib."
Once at the hospital, doctors confirmed Haley's suspicions. Further tests revealed Shawn was in heart failure with fluid around his lungs and severe mitral valve regurgitation. "The doctors told me that it was only a matter of time before my heart might have given out," he said. "At that point, it all set in. They told me I had been in AFib for months, but the scary part is that I didn't feel any of it."
Shawn spent three days in the hospital undergoing treatments to restore his heart to a normal rhythm, including cardioversion and, later, a cardiac ablation. Since his procedure, he has maintained a normal sinus rhythm.
Honoring an angel
Reflecting on the experience, Shawn says he believes everything happened for a reason and feels it was not a coincidence that he already had an appointment with Haley the day after his symptoms began.
"If it wasn't for Haley, I wouldn't have taken the necessary steps to realize the severity of my condition," Shawn said. "Because of her attention to detail and ability to read the situation—and not just take it as the throw-off comment I was giving her—I now have more time to spend with my four kids and wife."
Brooke echoes Shawn's sentiment highlighting Haley's extraordinary care. "I'm thankful she took the time to listen to him, both literally and figuratively," she said. "Haley acted beyond the typical workflow of her role and ensured he got the care he needed."
To learn more about the Parkview Health Foundation's Guardian Angel Program and other ways you can give, visit parkview.com/foundation.
