In the 48 hours I was in Denver visiting my son who had just been admitted to Denver Health, Dawn Green made a frightening and very stressful event much more tolerable. Dawn was emotionally supportive and exemplified extraordinary customer service and patient care. She is the model of empathy and was above and beyond by reaching out to me and helping me. Her kindness is genuine and she embraces the core values of Denver Health: dedicated to excellence, compassionate service and strength through collaboration.

When we found out that our son was taken to the hospital and on a 72 hour hold we were scared and worried. He had been accepted into Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design and he had big dreams about going to art school. He moved to Denver on Monday and by Wednesday he landed himself in the hospital. I flew to Denver on Thursday to be by his side and to try and understand what had happened. I came straight from the airport to Denver Health and had to wait until visiting hours began that evening. While I was waiting I was able to meet with one of the doctors who were treating my son and he was able to inform me about his condition and current state. It is a parent's worst nightmare to hear that their child has gotten involved with drugs and also could possibly have mental illness.

I sat and waited until it was 5:00 pm to visit with him. I had purchased a one way ticket to Denver because I had no idea when I would return to Texas. I was trying to familiarize myself with the hospital, the protocol with having a family member on the fourth floor, the Denver area and how was I going to get around and where was I going to stay. I kept asking the staff at the desk on the fourth floor question after question.

The doctor (sub intern) I met with was able to explain to me about my son's condition and the choices that had to be made by the end of the 72 hour hold. The charge nurse, Dawn Green, was extremely patient with my multiple questions and she was sympathetic relating to me that she had boys of her own. She understood the worry and difficulties in having an "adult" child.

Fortunately I found a place to stay and finally left the hospital that night. I returned the next morning to hear that my son didn't want to see me. That was a very difficult thing to hear. Dawn offered to go back and talk to his nurse. When Dawn came back out she and I sat down in the family waiting room and talked. Dawn listened and her kind words helped me through a very tough day. The doctors met with me and explained that they had made a decision about my son. They were going to have him stay on a short term certificate and they were going to tell him in the afternoon.

My son didn't want to see me during the first visiting hours block so I decided I needed to clear my head and stretch my legs. Dawn offered me her umbrella (it was raining) and a ride to downtown so I could see some of Denver and take a break from my son's situation. I walked around Larimer Street and 16th Street Mall. It was very helpful to have at least a couple of hours to divert my thoughts. I returned to the hospital at 5:00pm to see my son. During my walk the doctor (Dr.A) had called and told me some great news. My son agreed to try the medicine and to also sign his ROI (so I could be included in knowing what was going on with him).

When I arrived at the hospital, he said he didn't want to see me. Once again Dawn went back to talk to his nurse and advocate on my behalf. His nurse (Brittany) came out and said that he would see me for just a few minutes. I would take whatever time I could get. I visited with him for just a few minutes but I felt hopeful. The day had been full of ups and downs but having the support and help from Dawn made this stressful time much better. When it came time to leave, Dawn offered me a ride to the place I was staying. I took her up on her offer and we chatted on the car ride. Dawn is a compassionate, caring nurse, mother and friend. She really cares about people and the world around her.

I came back to the hospital on Saturday morning and visited with my son. He and I decided that I should go back to Texas to take care of his younger siblings. I would keep in touch with him and his doctors by phone. We will be working with the staff of Denver Health to help our son recover and regain his life back. We wanted to tell you about this extraordinary staff member, Dawn Green, so she could be recognized for her outstanding performance.