Kaila Whitehead
August 2024
Kaila
Whitehead
,
BSN, RN
Pediatric Acute Unit
Ochsner Medical Center-New Orleans
New Orleans
,
LA
United States

 

 

 

While we all loved L, he held a special place in Kaila's heart. She became a friend and a huge support to L's mother throughout his hospitalization.
L is a patient who has spent the vast majority of his life admitted with us. He was unable to be discharged home until he was 18 months old- a year after receiving a liver transplant. He was then admitted frequently, for months at a time, until he died at 2 1/2 years old. While we all loved L, he held a special place in Kaila's heart. She became a friend and a huge support to L's mother throughout his hospitalization. A, his mom, and his 3-year-old sister had to remain in the hospital with him during his hospitalizations. To say this is disruptive to a family is an understatement. They had to move to New Orleans, leaving behind their family and support system. Kaila became that support. She visited him at the hospital and at home on her off days. She gave emotional support to A when he was really sick, and we weren't sure he was going to make it. And when he finally could fight no more, Kaila was with them in the ER when he passed away. After his passing, it was Kaila who arranged a memorial service at the Brent House in his honor. For a family that had little to no resources, this was a blessing. L's second family- all the doctors, nurses, and staff who had been touched by his beautiful soul were able to attend. We, and L's family, are forever grateful for how much she gave to this little boy who was here for such a short time.