Colin was an exceptionally kind, caring, and compassionate health care provider for my son, who nearly overdosed. By the time my son was beginning to wake up, Colin's shift began. He was very professional by introducing himself and explaining what he would be doing to help my son, in addition to asking if I had any questions or concerns.

I felt so relieved that someone was making an active effort to attend to my son's well-being or life. I was especially thankful that he talked to my son and me in a non-judgmental, understanding, and sensitive way. Both suicide and addiction are mental health illnesses that have stigma attached to them and diseases that many health care providers do not like handling because of how challenging patients afflicted by them can be. David Sheff cites this fact in his book Beautiful Boy: As a result, few of the addicted get the long-term, comprehensive care they need. And by the time they seek treatment, if they do, they’re usually in crisis, which makes it more difficult and expensive to treat them. At that stage, many are belligerent, angry, depressed, or even violent, so doctors, nurses, counselors, and social workers don’t always want to treat them.

This did not deter Colin from treating us with absolute dignity and respect. His communication methods exhibit the characteristic of professionalism as he clearly identified himself, his commitment to care, and involved us in my son's recovery. Furthermore, Colin showed the characteristic of compassion by attending to our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. He offered a meal and drink to both of us and warmed one up for my son to nourish him. He also obtained assistance to attend to my son's bathroom needs. He checked in with us on several occasions, engaged my son in conversation, and reassured us that my son would get the care needed.

Even after my son spoke to a psychologist and was discharged, Colin continued to assist with his care by helping my son gather his belongings, boosting our confidence about the resources available, and escorting us out of the Emergency Department. This type of thoughtful and considerate care was such a gift to receive. It is rare to come across outstanding health care professionals like Colin. The wonderful care he provided is surely how he treats every patient and is exemplary. I am truly grateful for the extraordinary care Nurse Colin gave to my son.