October 2024
Heather
Bamford
,
MSN, RN, CPHON
Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center
Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters
Norfolk
,
VA
United States
She did not hesitate. She did not move. She allowed this mother a safe space to feel the incredible weight of this new reality.
Our Hematology/Oncology team deals with new oncology diagnoses often, but sometimes the family reaction is unexpected or requires a bit more staff support than usual. On this day, Heather Bamford and our MD were delivering the news to a mom that her young 4-year-old son had a cancer diagnosis and would need treatment. Mom was alone without family and appropriately devastated by this news. She was terrified, overwhelmed, and on a roller coaster with her emotions. This mother had a visceral reaction to the news and rushed to the bathroom. Heather did not hesitate at all, followed her to the bathroom, and held this mother between the toilet and bathtub while she sobbed through a mother's grief. She did not hesitate. She did not move. She allowed this mother a safe space to feel the incredible weight of this new reality. As the Social Worker, I was called to assist and when I walked into that bathroom, I knew that this mother was cared for, supported, and would be okay. Together Heather and I were able to support mom back to her baseline so she could receive the information needed to move forward with treatment for her son. Heather stood out as a wonderful Nurse Educator who stepped into this mother's grief, remained calm, and provided a safe and supportive place for her when she needed it most. She truly went above and beyond.