Sometimes we forget a nurse’s real superpower is as simple as being present when no one else is. Our inpatient stay at Anschutz was for testing. We didn't need a crash cart or lifesaving intervention, but we needed answers.

To say my daughter is anxious is an understatement. We are Texas residents who made a 10-hour trip to be seen by the neuro clinic. We were exhausted before we were fully checked in. Tayler was the first nurse in the room and stayed with my daughter during the entire intake and assessment process. It had to be obvious early on that my daughter was scared.

Tayler did everything in her capacity to make my daughter feel comfortable and most importantly; and heard. My daughter made it clear that she would not be an easy stick for that IV, and Tayler waited until she was sure that my daughter had her trust before attempting to find a vein. My daughter was listed as a fall risk and was unable to use the restroom without a nurse. Try telling a teenager that she must have a "buddy" to hold her hand while she goes to the bathroom! She was miserable and vowed not to use the restroom during the three days we were scheduled to be evaluated.

Tayler assured my daughter that it was not a big deal and turned on the hair dryer for added noise while they were in the restroom. My daughter advised me at the end of the visit that her time with Tayler was the only point during our stay where she was helped! This is a nurse who saw a patient who clearly needed her to slow down and be present. Tayler did just that. "Hand-Holding 101" is sometimes a forgotten skill, but Tayler still has her certification up to date.