Phoenixville Nurse Honored For Caring For Homeless Patient's Dog

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — A Phoenixville nurse who went above and beyond for one of her patients has been recognized once more.

Philly Magazine's 2024 Best of Philly list included Phoenixville Hospital ICU Nurse Michelle Lombardi as its "Best Foster Parent."

Lombardi recently was faced with a challenging situation: one of her patients was homeless and didn't know what was going to happen to his dog.

The man was living out of his car, according to Phoenixville Hospital, which awarded Lombardi with their "Daisy" award for her incredible actions. The patient's medical situation meant he was going to have to spend extended time in the hospital.

He didn't know what to do with his dog. That's where the hero nurse stepped in.

"With the patient's permission and through the kindness of her heart, Michelle brought the dog to her house and cared for it like it was one of her own," the hospital shared.

While Lombardi cared for the dog at her home, she was part of the team that brought the man himself back to health.

"The patient was extremely thankful to Michelle not only for taking care of his dog but also for being able to get the medical treatments he needed," the hospital added.

Lombardi continued to care for the pup until after the man was able to get out of the hospital and get an apartment of his own.

The "Daisy" program is a nationwide effort to recognize extraordinary nurses.