St. Luke's Health System

Omar Leija, nursing supervisor for the Infusion Center team in Jerome, was recently presented with a DAISY Award for his excellence in service. His nomination came from a grateful patient who described Leija as an “angel” for his kindness and help.

The nominator was recently at the Jerome Emergency Department lobby to utilize the internet before an MRI. The patient has a deep brain stimulator (DBS), a device that helps manage symptoms caused by a neurological condition, as well as a spinal cord stimulator for chronic pain. Before having an MRI, these devices must often be placed into a special "MRI mode" to ensure the scan can be performed safely, which requires internet access.

After multiple unsuccessful attempts to get the DBS into MRI mode, the patient was feeling overwhelmed and worried that their MRI — and the surgery they needed — would be delayed. While there, they thankfully met Leija.

Leija took the time to listen, contacted the device representative, helped troubleshoot the issue and successfully got the device into MRI mode. He then coordinated an MRI appointment in Boise for the next day and agreed to even meet him there in the morning to assist if needed.

The next morning, Leija worked with the patient and device representative again to resolve another technical issue, ensuring the patient could complete their scan.

"(Omar) kept me calm. He was so patient. He is an angel. He went so out of his way for me,” the patient shared in the nomination. “Because of him, I don't have to wait months for surgery. The world needs more Omars."

This Fourth of July marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The 250th anniversary of the United States invites celebration, reflection and renewed commitment to liberty and equality, while recognizing that some still face barriers to fully experiencing those promises. The Boise Skybridge will be illuminated this evening in honor of the day.

We also want to encourage plenty of hydration, sunscreen and safe practices when handling fireworks!

Meet Clarissa Thompson, BSN, RN, AMB-BC, St. Luke’s Wood River Family Medicine:

“Hi, my name is Clarissa Thompson, and I am a family medicine RN. I started my healthcare career as a certified nursing assistant working in assisted living and memory care. I started nursing school at the start of COVID-19, where nearly half took place virtually. I graduated with my ADN, passed my NCLEX and started working at the St. Luke’s Family Medicine Clinic. Shortly after starting, I began working towards my BSN, graduating May 2024, two months postpartum with my first child. I have had the opportunity to precept well over 10 employees starting at the clinic which has contributed to my leadership skills. In January 2026, after hours of studying and preparing, I took and passed the Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification (AMB-BC). I have now been with St. Luke’s Family Medicine Clinic for three and a half years. Working in family medicine has been a great experience for me. I enjoy being able to watch my patients grow over the years and support them with their health.”

Begin your career journey with St. Luke’s by joining our team at the Family Medicine Clinic today! Apply now - https://bit.ly/4b0n4Jf or visit our careers website for more opportunities Careers at St. Luke’s (stlukesonline.org)