Guardian Angels make a positive difference in the lives of patients
- Kalin Quin
- Sep 9
- 9 min read
Every day, Ascension Wisconsin patients have the opportunity to recognize Ascension Wisconsin associates who went above and beyond during their care through Ascension Wisconsin's new Guardian Angel program.
Congratulations to everyone who was recently recognized and celebrated as Guardian Angels.
Guardian Angel Nominations
The following testimonials were written in each patient's own words.
Inpatient rehab team at Ascension Elmbrook
"How can I possibly choose just one Guardian Angel? You see, I'm from Brooklyn. Howuduin!! Everyone at Ascension Wisconsin Elmbrook, 4th floor, are totally Angels in their own universal way. Way to go Angels from the 4th Floor. Kay, Meg, Kirk, Amira, Angie, Nina, Kim, Sue, Sophia, just to name a few. But let's not forget the other ones I didn't mention. You are all so beautiful and amazing, it was such a pleasure to have crossed all of your paths. Thanks for everything."
Sarah Bertzyk, nurse practitioner, Ascension Medical Group
"After having suffered with G.I. symptoms for quite some time, I was seen by Ms. Bertzyk to determine what might be the cause. She not only referred me to an awesome surgeon, but also made me feel so comfortable, and so heard, like no one before her. She also determined that I had a second condition, and has been treating me for that with dignity, respect and compassion. Her bedside manner is wonderfully caring. She is not only knowledgeable, but sensitive to my needs. I cannot emphasize enough how she makes me feel seen, heard and cared about. I appreciate her."
Dr. Jeffrey Maehl, family medicine physician, Ascension Medical Group
Recognized as a Guardian Angel by four patients.
“Dr. Maehl always stays on top of your healthcare, and calls right after you have any tests done. Dr. Maehl is truly unlike any doctor I’ve had before.”
“Dr. Jeffrey Maehl has been an outstanding physician, and I’ve had the privilege of being his patient for many years. I truly appreciate his focus on preventive care, he always ensures I stay up to date with my physical and health screening. Anytime I’m not feeling well, he makes it a priority to see me promptly. His dedication and attentiveness have made such a positive impact that I regularly recommend him to anyone looking for a new doctor.”
“I was in a bad accident and my body went through a lot of trauma. Every time I would go see him and tell him something wasn’t right, he listened to me and sent me to go get it checked out and I was right, it was something that was missed and I had to get surgery to get it fixed. He cares about and listens to his patients and his saying always is ‘you know your body better than anyone, so if you feel something is hurting you or not right we’ll get to the bottom of it.’ He is just an all around great person and physician.”
“In February of 2022 my whole world came falling down when I had a house fire. I was not home when the fire started. Upon arriving at home I ran into to save my dog and the two foster dogs I had. Thus I inhaled a lot of smoke and soot. My dog passed away three days after due to smoke inhalation. I had a really hard time sleeping after losing Otis and had to move out of my house into a hotel. The hotel was awful and I eventually was able to move into a temporary apartment. During this time my emotions were all over the place. Dr Maehl has been my doctor for over 15 years and I drive all the way from the south side of Milwaukee to see him. My health began to take a tumble from the stress. Dr. Maehl allowed me to get an appointment despite being booked up because he knew about the fire. He also knew how much my dog meant to me and being able just to talk to him was therapeutic. He also gave me support with my inability to sleep and made sure to check in on me. He truly is the best doctor there is. For this reason he is my Guardian Angel.”
Dr. Michael Von Rueden, family medicine physician, Ascension Medical Group
"Dr. Von Rueden has been my doctor for about 30 years and I'm so happy to have such a great doctor. He is always patient with me. He always answers my questions. When I use Mychart, he replies quickly and always has great wisdom to give me. I couldn't ask for a better doctor. Every time I see him, he goes above and beyond for me and I'm sure he does this for all of his patients. I've had a variety of medical problems and he is always supportive and talking to him calms me when I come in frantic about something. I'm so lucky to have Dr. V as my doctor. He's the best!"
Dr. Lynn Stanco, family medicine physician, Ascension Medical Group
Recognized as a Guardian Angel by two patients.
“Dr. Stanco has been my physician for 13 years. I was in the medical field, and am now retired. During that time of care, I went through a trauma while in my field, and she was and continues to be my Guardian Angel. She was and is compassionate, caring, understanding and takes the time to listen while always keeping her professionalism. She helped me and assured me she was giving me the best care possible. She is one of a kind and I hope to always have her at my side with her care.”
“Dr. Stanco really LISTENS, is kind, empathic, thorough, and knows you, not only as a patient but also as a person. She remembers what is important to you. She's not only a special doctor, she's a special human being!”
Dr. Luna Younan, family medicine physician, Ascension Medical Group
"Dr. Younan literally saved me at the lowest moment in my life. I had post-COVID symptoms that set me up to be a long hauler. My physical and mental state were destroyed by COVID, and I literally thought I was going to die at one point. Dr. Younan stepped in thinking of my condition holistically and brought all the latest knowledge to the table to recommend steps to get me back to myself. She also made sure I went for further testing to make sure nothing was overlooked or assumed. Dr. Younan saved my life."
Dr. Michele Holder, dermatologist, Ascension Medical Group
"Dr. Holder is significantly skillful at showing compassion for her patients while excelling in her medical care. She makes patients feel heard and cared for. She always greets patients with a warm, friendly and gracious attitude and brings up some non medical rid bit of conversation from the previous time the patient spoke with her. At the same time, she moves swiftly into taking care of the present medical need. She is efficient, more than competent, and warmly caring while keeping a grueling schedule. Hallelujahs for her drive to see as many people as possible and keep on schedule while being real, authentic, and caring. Dr. Holder is a role model for all new doctors coming into the system."
Dr. Jack Jorgensen, family medicine physician, Ascension Medical Group
"Dr. Jorgensen always does his best to figure out what's going on to make me feel better. There was one time I was having chest pain for three months, and he ordered a stress test when I shared that I felt something was wrong. He always asks me for my thoughts, and when I tell him something he truly cares and listens to me. That's why Dr. Jorgensen is my Guardian Angel."
Dr. David Miller, podiatrist, Ascension Medical Group
Recognized as a Guardian Angel by four patients.
"I have had issues with my foot for over 8 years. Been to several Drs. (6) for the issue, 7 surgeries, several injections and had no relief. I was referred to Dr. Miller by a Dr. at OSMS. The concern and care I received from Dr. Miller was above and beyond any other professional I have seen. His Care and Compassion was very reassuring that he could help me. After several visits and much review and chats, Dr. Miller has come up with a plan to help me. The way Dr. Miller listened to me without judgment and believed what I was saying was exceptionally professional."
"Dr. David E. Miller at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Appleton, WI, is truly one of the best podiatrists in town due to his excellent bedside manner. During every appointment I had with him, he explained things well and genuinely cared about my health issues. It's not just me as a patient he does this with; he treats all his patients well, as evident from the numerous positive reviews on Google. Dr. David E. Miller deserves high recognition for his outstanding work at St. Elizabeth's Hospital and his kindness throughout his years there. His compassion and interaction with patients, including myself, are outstanding."
"I'd like to recognize Dr. Miller, Podiatrist! He is intelligent, personable and shows concern for his diabetic patients, of whom I am one! I believe recognizing him as a physician anyone would want (Guardian Angel) is important."
"Dr. David E. Miller is more than just a podiatrist, he's a true healer who genuinely cares about his patients. I've had the pleasure of being under his care for many years, and I can confidently say that his bedside manner is top-notch. He takes the time to explain everything thoroughly, making sure I understand what's going on with my treatment. I feel so grateful to have him as my doctor!"
Demetra LaGalbo, nurse navigator, Ascension Columbia St. Mary’s Ozaukee
"Getting a positive diagnosis of breast cancer is very overwhelming - so many new words, so many test results, so many doctors, so many appointments - as well as very scary. Demetra understood all the details and explained everything clearly and honestly, answering so many questions or getting back to me quickly if she needed to get answers. She also understood all the emotions and was very kind and empathetic. As my nurse navigator, she helped me steer a clear course through my surgeries and treatments. She was my angel and watched over me throughout my journey. God bless her."
Dr. Manfred Chiang, surgeon, Ascension Medical Group
"I would like to provide my most sincere thanks and highest recognition for the exceptional care and communication I received from Dr Manfred Chiang and his team. As a part of two surgeries I had in August and September, Dr Chiang, Alefiyah Adam-PA, and Marissa Bunn-NP provided care and daily communication that exceeded expectations. Every morning for 15 days, Dr Chiang and an associate met with me to recap and provide insight into next steps. The challenges were addressed, plans and timing were discussed, and I knew I had the personal attention and complete focus on my well-being. There is no doubt in my mind that if all of healthcare was managed as personally and professionally as Dr. Chiang and his team, the wellbeing of both patients and the industry would greatly improve. The care I received is important for me to share with you. This team is a benchmark!"
Dr. Theresa Hayssen, surgeon, Ascension Medical Group
"I love Dr. Hayssen and am SO appreciative of the excellent surgical work she did to save my life. Dr. Hayssen skillfully removed what was left of a tumor and also 21 lymph nodes which all came back negative on the pathology report. I think what I like most is the JOY in her calm and caring voice when she told me those results and her smile. Dr. Hayssen has the BEST bedside manner whether it's in her office exam room or at the bedside before and after surgery and on rounds. She is unique as she really takes the time to get to know me and my husband as people and not just as a patient. I am SO thankful that I was assigned to her as my surgeon. She also has great staff that work with her at her office. Thank you so very much for your care, I am forever grateful."
About Guardian Angel
Guardian Angel, a new program of Ascension Wisconsin Foundation, allows patients to recognize any Ascension Wisconsin associate that went above and beyond during their care.
Patients who opt in to receive communication from Ascension Wisconsin are sent an email inviting them to honor an associate, or multiple associates, by sharing their story, making a gift in their honor or both!
Learn more about Guardian Angel, here.
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