ICU nurse finds inspiration in Curry's motivational verse

SAN FRANCISCO — Intensive care unit nurse Shelby Delaney has depended on Stephen Curry’s “I Can Do All Things” go-to motivational verse so many times over the years.

Those words from the Bible are written inside the No. 30 jersey of Curry’s that she has worn beneath her scrubs day after day to get through each daunting moment of the pandemic. Now, she has another incredible option: Curry took the game-worn uniform off his back Sunday night after scoring 37 points in win over Sacramento, signed it and gave it to this extra-special essential worker. He then scurried down the tunnel shirtless heading to the locker room.

Robert Crowley, her husband, threw his hands in the air, encouraging the fans to cheer.

“Absolutely awesome. He’s an amazing person,” said Delaney later. “Undoubtedly, it was one of the best nights of my life.”

Last spring, Curry made a FaceTime video call to Delaney and her colleagues at Oakland’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center after learning she was wearing his uniform.

Going home with a new @StephenCurry30 jersey https://t.co/JTIXOL4XWH pic.twitter.com/aY2CaH3kNA

— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) April 26, 2021

Delaney and Crowley found themselves sitting on the floor for the Golden State’s game against the Kings, thanks to Delaney wearing it again. A season ticket holder at Chase Center, who was unable to attend, had generously gifted them the courtside seats.

Delaney, a former high school basketball player and later a coach, had always dreamed of speaking with him. “Mostly to express my gratitude, as he has significantly influenced my life and the way I conduct myself,” he said.

The whole ‘I can do all things’ concept somewhat aided me, but what really inspired me was his firm belief in it and the way he led his life with joy and love. I was observing him when I started my nursing career in my early 20s, a challenging period in life. Working in the ICU, I often thought, ‘I can’t do this.’ However, he helped me get through this and my personal issues with my family.

The time Curry spent with Delaney, her nursing colleagues, and other medical staff, offered a much-needed boost during the toughest phase of COVID-19.

Delaney shared that the call with the two-time MVP greatly uplifted everyone, including all the nurses and other staff members. She said people told her it significantly boosted morale and led to numerous donations. These included face masks, surgical masks, and food – enough to share with the entire hospital. She emphasized that it made everyone feel loved and appreciated, as they are all risking their lives, not just the ICU nurses.

Upon reaching her seat opposite the Warriors bench before tipoff, 28-year-old Delaney moved to the music.

When Curry was introduced, she and Crowley cheered.

Coach Steve Kerr expressed his appreciation, saying, “Our organization finds it truly gratifying to be able to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions during the pandemic. The role we play in the community, acknowledging those who merit recognition, is extremely important. It’s a wonderful opportunity, especially considering the abundance of our fans who have been at the forefront during the pandemic. The more recognition we can give, the better, and it’s a privilege to be able to do so.”

Delaney holds the belief that her experience as a nurse during the pandemic has made her more proficient. She provided her patients with love and care when they were alone, reinforcing her confidence in her abilities.

“She remarked, “The job is challenging, but I genuinely adore it. I believe that my passion has significantly improved my nursing skills over the past year. Since the family is not around, it requires a little more effort. It demands a different kind of presence – you need to play the role of a nurse as well as a family member.”