For a week, my son experienced high fevers and complex symptoms. We were already physically/emotionally drained when he had been diagnosed with Kawasaki disease, necessitating at least a 48-hour hospital stay. This involved IVs, echocardiograms, lab tests, and many other intimidating procedures for an otherwise healthy 11-year-old boy. When we arrived on the unit we were greeted with an upbeat and smiling nurse - Brooklyn.

She immediately began explaining what would happen to my son in a way he could understand. ABMC is not a children’s hospital, but she sure made it feel like it was! We were fortunate to have Brooklyn as his nurse for 3 days. Brooklyn showed remarkable empathy while caring for my son, expertly balancing providing comfort and encouraging him to take essential steps in his treatment. Her skill in managing these aspects had a significant positive impact on our experience. He was not himself—he was scared, in intense pain, and physically drained, merely a shadow of his usual vibrant self. Even though he spoke very little to anyone, she treated him with great kindness and made consistent efforts to engage and cheer him up. Ultimately, she succeeded and was genuinely delighted to see his beautiful smile.

When my son found out he would need to stay in the hospital for another two days, he had a meltdown. I was at my breaking point, overwhelmed and exhausted. Brooklyn swiftly stepped in, sat on the bed beside him, and talked him through his distress with a calm and reassuring presence. Her intervention allowed me to regain my composure and provide the best care for my son without him seeing me fall apart. Because of Brooklyn, I was able to maintain a strong front for my son, which was crucial for his emotional stability. Brooklyn's support was not just for my son but extended to me as well. I wasn’t her patient, but she could see when I needed her and didn’t hesitate to step in. Her dedication and understanding gave me the strength to continue despite my own emotions and exhaustion. She demonstrated a level of compassion & empathy that goes beyond the call of duty, and I am so grateful for the difference she made during a very challenging time.

I'm pleased to share that my son has fully recovered, and I am so grateful to Brooklyn for her significant role in our lives. She likely isn't aware of the profound impact she had on us. While she was performing her duties as a nurse, she went above and beyond, showing care to our whole family. THANK YOU!