Honor Your Caregiver

Tafadzwa Makarawo

Surgical Specialty
AZ - Banner Thunderbird Medical Center

I am a cancer survivor. In February of 2025, I had stage 2 colon cancer and I was in the hospital for a month. In that time frame, Dr. Mak was fantastic on checking on me and would call my wife to put her at ease. We live an hour and a half away; this helped her a lot. In October 2025, I had an ileostomy reversal with Dr. Mak. He was always there for me. Today, I am back to normal and enjoying things again, like the Phoenix Zoo. I wish I could remember and thank all the people in Banner that were there for me; you all did a great job.

Other caregiver stories

“Amanda was the NP for the ICU when I was in the hospital for 2 weeks mid-April. She showed such empathy for me and really helped pull me up at a time when I was the lowest I’ve ever felt. She took such a personal interest in my health and well-being that it still makes me cry when I think of what she did for me.”

Amanda Zeagler, NP, Obstetrics & Gynecology
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“Despite the fact that he takes care of so many patients, my father and our family were, and are, genuinely important to Dr. Mahmoud. As he is to us. He let me know that on his last visit with my parents, when they decided to move to hospice care, there were tears all around. He is that kind of doctor, and that kind of person.”

Fade Mahmoud, MD, Oncology
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"I was involved in a serious bicycle accident and transported to the ER trauma room. Immediately I was surrounded by the trauma team who worked quickly and efficiently. It is apparent that the trauma team is a highly skilled team that works well together. The community is blessed to have a Level 1 trauma facility and a competent and dedicated staff. I am confident that they will save lives in our community."

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"I went to the ER due to having some breathing issues. Christy Lewis, RN was there and was amazing. She held my hand and made me feel very comfortable and helped calm me. Every test was coming back negative and I was really getting worried. She talked to the doctor about ordering a CT and that diagnosed the problem. She is absolutely amazing! I hope every patient that comes through those doors gets her!"

Chisty Lewis, RN, Emergency Medicine
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"Sarah is an incredibly busy person, yet she always gets back to me in a timely fashion, even on Sundays! She is always pleasant, knowledgeable, and patient listening to me and my wife’s concerns. My wife and I can’t sing Sarah’s praises enough. She is an extraordinary member of my cardiac care team. We will always remember her kindness and treating us like people."

Sarah Voll, NP, Cardiology
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