Jenna Easley, BSN, RN

My 15-year-old daughter was transferred to Children’s Mercy after a suicide attempt while out of town. We were lucky enough to have Jenna for 3 days in a row. I am a pediatric nurse myself, although I’m not sure if the topic ever came up. Jenna was the most amazing person we could have had in those difficult days. We may have been 'easy' patients because we never needed much, but Jenna was there every time we needed something. She was there physically and mentally; she was so supportive and caring. She spoke to my daughter like she was a real human and not someone at the lowest point in her life. We were relieved each morning when we would see Jenna walk back in with a smile on her face. When we were discharging, Jenna had a caring talk with my daughter and me, and we all were crying. I am not really a hugger, but Jenna's hug meant more than I ever thought it would.

The other day, my daughter said, "Remember, I can do hard things." When I asked her about that, she said her nurse told her that right before she left. Not only did Jenna work her magic while we were there, but she also left a lasting impression on a very fragile 15-year-old’s mind. I can't thank Jenna enough. She helped so much during such a scary time for my daughter and me. My daughter is doing great now, back in school and sports, and apparently repeats 'I can do hard things' to herself when she faces something tough. Thank you, Children's Mercy, for giving us the best nurse we could ask for.