After Heart Surgery at Silver Cross Hospital, Frankfort Man Found a ‘DAISY’ 

Tom Siurek was playing golf last year when he felt a little strain. Having had a valve replacement a few years before, he figured he’d better get it checked out. 

Siurek hadn’t had any cardiac issues when he began seeing a cardiologist more than 20 years ago. But since his dad had a couple heart attacks, he thought it wise to keep an eye on it. 

After his issue on the golf course, Siurek’s cardiologist ordered some tests, but he didn’t quite make it to the appointment. 

“The day before the tests, I was checking out water main work near our complex since I was president of our homeowner’s association,” said Siurek, 86, of Frankfort. “As I was walking toward them, I fainted. They called 9-1-1, and I was taken to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox.” 

When tests showed two blocked arteries, Siurek not only benefitted from double-bypass surgery last October with renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Pat Pappas, but was cared for by nurse Mary Carol Barkowski, who provided friendly, compassionate care. 

“She’s a golfer, like me,” Siurek said. “And she attended the University of Iowa, like my son. We had a connection.” 

Taking Special Care

So impressed was Siurek and his family with Barkowski’s care, he nominated her for a DAISY Award, an international recognition program that honors extraordinary nurses. His nomination said it all: 

“I would like to nominate my nurse Mary Carol B. for the DAISY Award and thank her for her compassion. At a time of uncertainty, pain and uneasiness, Mary Carol was always a delight. She would enter my room with a sweet smile and air of confidence. She would answer all my questions that came with staying on the cardiac floor for 10 days. 

“She spent time with me and my family to reassure us in what the next days would encounter. Mary Carol made it her mission to see that I was going to be sent home, and that I reached all my benchmarks after surgery. My family was also so appreciative of her because she made sure to explain what open-heart surgery afterwards would look like in my room,” said Siurek. “She explained every piece of equipment I was on and assured us that the next day would get better.

“I was lucky to have been assigned to Mary Carol as my nurse. I was blessed to have such a compassionate and professional nurse during my surgery. Silver Cross can be proud to have Mary Carol to call one of their own. 

“My thanks to all the staff and doctors I had during my stay. I could not have asked for a better cardiac team at Silver Cross. Even though I was admitted to the emergency room, I am lucky that I ended up on the first floor under Dr. Pappas and Dr. Yuen and the cardiac team to help me recover and go on living life. Thank you for restoring my health.” 

After that testimonial, Barkowski received the coveted DAISY Award on Nov. 16, with Siurek, his wife, Mona, and other family members there to cheer her on. 

Following cardiac rehab three days a week for seven weeks, Siurek said he’s just about ready to pick up the clubs again … when the weather cooperates. He said he’s able to because of the wonderful care at Silver Cross. 

“I’m very blessed and fortunate.” 

For more information, visit www.silvercross.org/heart