... A grandfather presented to our Emergency Department via EMS with his granddaughter, who was in full cardiac arrest. After utilizing all of our knowledge and resources, the small child passed away. The grandfather, who was in complete shock, was alone and scared, and with no family or friends to turn to, stood by himself and cried. Sean extended himself to the grandfather as if he was a close friend or relative. He stayed by his side the entire time that the grandfather was in our department and comforted him the best way he knew how. He sat with him. He cried with him, and he grieved with him. He made sure that any need the grandfather had was fulfilled. Sean gave the grandfather a shoulder to cry on and made sure this grandfather had someone to lean on.

Sean showed great compassion as he cared for this grandfather. He did not have to do what he did, but he chose to be that extraordinary nurse and go one step further. In all my years working at Children's, I have never seen a family member without other family or friends to grieve with. It was heartbreaking. I am very proud of Sean and the choice that he made. He provided this grandfather comfort in this horrific situation. Sean deserves recognition for his heroic actions.