To our Extended Heart Family Team of Extraordinary Cath Lab Nurses,

Our little heart warrior was very nervous leading up to his cath procedure. We did our best as parents to prepare him by explaining what he might encounter during his hospital stay. After all, it had been over three years since his last procedure! The moment the curtain opened in our room, we were met with warm smiles, positive energy, and just the right amount of silly jokes to ease the nerves.

Even though our son didn’t recognize the nurses, my heart instantly relaxed when I saw familiar faces ready to care for our little guy. He was so proud that you all noticed his Lego skills. Something so small, yet so powerful in reminding him that he is more than just a patient. You saw him. You listened. And you made him feel safe. Letting go is never easy. Watching your child disappear behind hospital doors brings an automatic rush of tears—but seeing your calm, confident presence made it just a little easier.

You didn’t just care for our son's physical needs; you comforted his spirit. Your lightheartedness helped him laugh through his nerves, and your kind words gave him the courage to face what was ahead. There was a time when I prayed to see my son not as his diagnosis, but for who he truly is. That prayer was answered a long time ago at Advocate Children’s Heart Institute.

Thanks to all of you, he is excelling in school. Thanks to all of you, he enjoys playing soccer with his teammates. Thanks to all of you, he loves swimming at the pool with his siblings. Thanks to all of you, he will turn seven this fall. Thanks to all of you, we are the proud parents of the funniest, most empathetic, and bravest little heart warrior.

We are deeply grateful for each and every one of you and the work you do every single day. Thank you for caring for our son with such skill, compassion, and—most importantly—heart.