Jenny Jones is a Nursing Hero that came into our lives on August 29, 2024, at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in D4 ICU, during a very difficult time for our family. Her presence, skills, and ability to connect with all of us made the difference. Everyone needs to be cared for by a “Jenny,” and she is truly deserving of recognition for her exceptional nursing skills that touched the mind, body, and spirit of our entire family. We are forever grateful to her. Here is our story.
My husband, Edwin Alejandro Cocco (Alex), unexpectedly found himself fighting for his life following a seven-hour surgery on August 27th. Earlier that summer, he had been diagnosed with a very rare neuroendocrine insulinoma cancer of the pancreas. The Whipple surgery was put forward as the best chance of extending his life. At the same time, our oldest daughter, Malaya, was scheduled to begin her first year at Queens University and move into residence on August 31st. It was a daunting task for the whole family given the circumstances. Alex had anticipated this milestone for years and wanted to ensure his daughters lived life fully, not burdened by his illness.
When we met Jenny, Alex was intubated, sedated, and medically paralyzed. She immediately took an interest in learning about Alex as a person—what motivated him, who he was, and the important things about our family. Even though he was unable to communicate directly, she instinctively saw his will to fight. Her warmth and competence were evident from the first moment we met her, creating an immediate sense of trust and comfort.
We had the privilege of Jenny caring for Alex for five consecutive days in the D4 Critical Care ICU. During this time, her ability to connect with Alex and her clinical expertise became invaluable. Jenny assured us that she and the care team would look after Alex while we moved Malaya into residence. Before we left, we gathered around Alex’s bed, said our goodbyes, and Jenny said, “We got this… he would want you to go… I will keep you fully updated… you can call anytime.” Her energy and conviction made an incredibly difficult decision more manageable and positive.
While at Queens, we surrendered to the unknown and trusted the extraordinary skills of the care team. Jenny communicated continuously and advised us that Alex’s procedure had been a success. Only six hours after returning from the OR, Jenny sent a video: Alex, though still intubated, miraculously lifted his arms to show Malaya his progress. Jenny’s encouragement and thoughtfulness made that moment possible—an unforgettable gift that demonstrated how one special person can extend their care far beyond the patient.
Jenny instinctively knew that Alex needed “wins” to fuel his recovery. Understanding his athletic background, she assisted him to sit at the side of the bed while he was still connected to multiple life-supporting devices. This small but powerful act strengthened his resolve to fight for recovery.
Upon returning from Queens, Jenny was there again, welcoming us warmly. She discovered that our youngest daughter, Lola, was interested in nursing and immediately began explaining procedures and involving Lola in appropriate ways. Through these moments, Jenny empowered Lola to feel engaged and helpful during a time that otherwise felt overwhelming. Watching them care for Alex together was a beautiful and enduring memory.
Even after Alex’s initial surgical recovery moved to other units, Jenny continued to visit, offering smiles, encouragement, and genuine connection. Later, when Alex returned to Sunnybrook ICU in December as his cancer progressed, Jenny was the one to welcome us again—on New Year’s Eve, no less. Her presence was a source of tremendous comfort during an uncertain and painful time.
Alex remained in ICU for ten days and, despite his serious condition, found strength through Jenny’s support. She talked with him about hiking and adventures, sharing inside jokes and building a relationship that extended beyond caregiver and patient. Alex referred to her as his “Guardian Angel.”
During another hospital stay, Jenny again welcomed Alex back and created yet another moment of hope and strength. Recognizing that Alex needed a morale boost, she returned the next day with a bracelet she made for him that read “Battle Ready.” Jenny’s encouragement inspired Alex to push himself—rigging up a system for him to carry his IV bags like a backpack so he could walk with pride and determination.
Alex wore that bracelet constantly. It became a symbol of his strength and mindset. When visitors worried about him, Alex would simply hold up his arm to show his “Battle Ready” bracelet and reassure them, saying, “It’s okay… I’m battle ready… we got this.”
Sadly, Alex passed away before his third scheduled procedure, but he did so wearing the bracelet Jenny gave him—a lasting symbol of his courage, resilience, and the extraordinary care he received.
Jenny Jones became more than a nurse to our family; she was a lifeline, a supporter, and a trusted friend. Her ability to tap into Alex’s strength, her timely presence during critical moments, and her unwavering compassion made an indelible impact on all of us. She truly embodies everything a Nursing Hero should be.
Nominated by: Shelly, Malaya & Lola on behalf of Edwin Alejandro “Alex” Cocco (Jan 18, 1974 – Mar 17, 2025)