Daniel and Lynn Moore’s Life-Saving Experience at CRMC

Daniel and Lynn Moore, of Byrdstown, Tenn., were days away from leaving for a vacation in South Carolina when their plans took an unexpected turn. Five days prior, Daniel began experiencing a limp in his leg, which quickly progressed alongside persistent headaches. Dismissing these as minor issues, Daniel powered through his barn project, attributing the symptoms to past vertigo and a suspected sinus infection. However, the worsening leg pain, loss of balance, and inability to button his shirt finally prompted Lynn to take action.

“You’re not acting right,” Lynn told her husband. Unable to secure a doctor’s appointment, the couple headed to the emergency room at Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC).

The ER at CRMC was bustling that Monday, but Daniel was triaged and called back quickly. After an expedited CT scan, the Moores found themselves in a room by 1:30 p.m. Jacob Olson, physician assistant (PA-C) with neurosurgery, explained the grim diagnosis: Daniel had a brain bleed. Despite having no recent trauma, Jacob and Neurosurgeon Dr. Joseph Jestus linked the condition to a slow bleed from a skid steer accident in September. The situation was serious—paralysis or even death could occur without immediate intervention.

Lynn researched Dr. Jestus, the neurosurgeon assigned to Daniel’s case, digging into his credentials and success rates. By 6:30 p.m., Dr. Jestus had finished his prior surgery case and arrived to talk with the Moores about next steps, and the decision was made to proceed with surgery.

“We prayed about it, and we had peace. We attribute that peace to God. But we also had peace because of how efficiently the ER worked and the communication among the staff,” Lynn recalled. “Even though they were so busy, they made us feel like we were their only priority.”

Lynn continued speaking about her experience with PA, saying, “Jacob even spoke scripture to us and assured us he’d be praying. That comfort meant so much.”

Before Daniel was wheeled into the operating room (OR), they met certified registered nurse anesthetist Kelly Comer and then operating room nurse Jennifer Patrick, R.N. When Jennifer began to transport Daniel to the OR, Lynn asked that they pause to pray and invited Jennifer to join in if she wished.  “Jennifer’s willingness to stop and pray with us in that moment was incredible,” Lynn shared.

While Daniel was in surgery, Jennifer called Lynn three times with updates. “I could have cried,” Lynn said. “The communication was so reassuring.” When Dr. Jestus called post-surgery to report that everything had gone well, Lynn finally exhaled. The procedure, which involved cleaning out Daniel’s brain, was a success.

After surgery, Daniel moved to the intensive care unit (ICU), where Nurse Priscilla Fordham, R.N. became a steadfast presence. “She kept checking on me and made sure I was comfortable,” Daniel said. “Her attentiveness and care were above and beyond.”

Lynn noted how even small acts, like getting her a biscuit when the workers were working to switch over for lunch, made a big difference.

“It’s the little things that show the heart of this hospital,” she said.

The Moores’ journey continued to the patient floor, where Nurse Ryanne Norfolk, R.N., exemplified exceptional care. Lynn and Daniel observed a consistent culture of teamwork and respect throughout the hospital. “We heard staff in the hallways speaking kindly and supporting each other,” Lynn noted. “There was never an excuse for being busy, and we could clearly see they were. Everyone focused on delivering the best care.”

Their gratitude extended to every department, from EVS staff like Karen Hammock.

“When I was in ICU, I saw Karen working in the hallways and waved for her to come in. She stayed and talked with me briefly, and it enriched my day. Everyone was on the same team,” Daniel said. “It’s the magnitude of everybody here working together that made the difference.”

Impressed by their experience, the Moores requested to meet with CRMC administration to share their story. They wanted CEO Buffy Key to know how her leadership trickled down through every level of the hospital.

“Somebody here is doing something right and keeping staff happy. That’s the kind of unity and family culture we saw here,” said Daniel.

As local residents, the Moores’ appreciation for CRMC goes beyond their personal experience.

“We’re local people who want to give back locally,” Lynn shared. “This hospital isn’t just a facility; it’s a community of people who truly care.”

For the Moores, CRMC turned what could have been a nightmare into a testament of hope and healing.

“No compromises were made in our care,” Daniel said. “From the ER to the ICU to the patient floor, this hospital’s dedication is unmatched.