News

Contact: Amy Blaser

For Immediate Release

(COLUMBUS, Neb.) – Columbus Community Hospital is proud to recognize respiratory therapist Melissa
Ramaekers with the Sheaf of Wheat Award. She received the award for her exceptional dedication and
quick thinking that averted a potentially critical situation during a recent severe winter storm. Melissa's
actions, brought to light by her colleague Colleen Jorgensen, exemplify CCH's commitment to patient
well-being — even under challenging circumstances.

At the height of the recent winter storm, Ramaekers was working an overnight shift alone when she
received a distressed call around 2 a.m. A woman’s husband, who is oxygen-dependent, had lost power
to his oxygen concentrator and was struggling to switch to his backup oxygen tanks. Due to the severe
weather, they were unable to leave their home, and emergency medical services would have faced
significant delays in reaching them.

Despite the woman's difficulty understanding medical terminology, Ramaekers patiently and skillfully
guided her through the process of changing the oxygen tank regulator. Her ability to quickly assess the
situation and provide clear instructions was instrumental in resolving the issue. The husband, who had
begun to experience dizziness and lightheadedness, was able to receive the oxygen he needed.

“Melissa's knowledge, patience and problem-solving skills are truly commendable,” said Jorgensen, a
respiratory therapist. “There is no doubt that this scenario could have had a very bad outcome if not for
her amazing work. She went above and beyond, demonstrating the profound impact our healthcare
professionals have on the lives of our community members — especially during emergencies.”

CCH commends Ramaekers for her outstanding service and dedication to patient care, and thanks
Jorgensen for bringing this heroic act to attention.

The Sheaf of Wheat Award recognizes employees who have made a lasting impression on patients or
their families. To nominate someone for this award, please complete a nomination pamphlet and return
it to any Sheaf of Wheat nomination box, located throughout the hospital and at coordinating sites.
Learn more.