Kelly Andersen is a nurse at ChildServe's long-term care program. Last year I witnessed what Kelly was able to do for a family whose child was about to pass away. It is our privilege to take care of children at the end of their life because they teach us so much. We also owe it to their families to make the last hours of their time with us as peaceful as possible, not only for the child but also for the family.
The child's sister and aunt were here all day and were waiting for mom to get here. She was traveling from out of state in a snow storm. Kelly did everything she could to make the aunt and sister comfortable. She brought in a recliner and a cot so they could get some sleep, but not have to leave the child's room. Kelly was texting back and forth with mom, and the doctor, keeping them updated on the child's condition. She was trying to keep the child as comfortable as possible, while still keeping them alive until mom could get here. This was all while still passing meds and caring for other children on the unit as well.
Mom arrived at about 5 a.m., and she had driven all night. Kelly brought her to the room and explained what was happening. Mom spent some time talking to the child and holding their hand. When she was ready, she asked Kelly to give them more medication and take them off the oxygen. The child passed a few minutes later. What Kelly did then was the most amazing thing to me. She and another nurse got the child straightened up in the bed so the mom and the sister could lay with them. That meant so much to both of them and was very heartwarming to see. I had to step out of the room and collect myself at that point. Kelly has done an amazing job and this shows the compassion and care that she gives to our children and families every day. This is a moment that I will never forget. Thank you, Kelly, for everything you do!