My daughter has Sickle Cell Anemia, and over the past five years, we've had frequent trips to CHOC. Although the service and support that this hospital provides is unmatched, none of the staff we've encountered has given us quite the 'extra special something' that Debbie gave us during our most recent visit. My daughter is very cautious, and doesn't warm up to people very easily. Debbie was funny, sat and talked with her much longer than anyone else ever has, and worked extra hard to make sure she was comfortable. When my daughter was having problems with her IV, (as she often has in the past) she sought out help from another nurse who helped rectify the situation.

Debbie was very clear in her communications with me, and made sure that she took our specific situation into account. She served as a liaison between myself to the doctors, and made sure my voice was heard. She didn't just treat my daughter like just another patient, she was a special little girl in her eyes, and she treated her as such. Debbie accomplished what very few adults have been able to do with my daughter - she gained her trust - she became her friend. In the two short days that Debbie was my daughter's nurse, I honestly believe that she helped make the hospital a much less scary place, and she went above and beyond her 'job' - she took the time to care, to support, and to love. Even at the end of our trip, as we were getting ready to say goodbye, Debbie walked us down to the lobby, helped carry our bags, helped us load up the car, and gave my little one a very personal goodbye and well wishes.

As a mother, words cannot express how grateful I am to her - people like her are invaluable to our world.