October 2020
Genevieve
Gragg
,
BSN, RNC-NIC
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
University of Colorado Hospital
Not only did Genevieve care so much for our daughter to thoroughly learn her medical history and her likes/dislikes, but she used her critical thinking to discuss and advocate for us with the medical team.
Working in healthcare for years never would have prepared me to have my own baby as a fragile patient fighting for her life. I was lucky enough to meet an angel, Genevieve, who fought alongside us for N's life. N had an extended stay in the NICU because she was born both extremely small and severely early. There were so many days that we didn't know if she would make it to the next. There was one ray of hope at the end of all of these days when Genevieve walked in to take care of N. Genevieve went incredibly above and beyond each time she was working. Nights were the hardest for us as parents because there was always a time when we had to leave. Not knowing if our daughter would make it through the night was just a devastatingly painful way to walk away. Genevieve was constantly there with reassurance. There was one day that N was really struggling. We were concerned for her after an event that left her weak and needing increased ventilator support. When we had no strength left, Genevieve came in the night and saved N's life. Not only did Genevieve care so much for our daughter to thoroughly learn her medical history and her likes/dislikes, but she used her critical thinking to discuss and advocate for us with the medical team. That night, Genevieve really listened to my fears and concerns. She comforted us by having labs and a chest X-ray ordered and sitting with N all night. Through these tests, we were able to see a potential pneumonia, and treatment was started right away. Genevieve called me to update on N's condition throughout the night. I have never felt more relieved and truly blessed to have met such a wonderful nurse. Not only did she save my daughter's life, but she made such a difference in mine. I will never be able to express my humble gratitude for Genevieve, but she certainly deserves to be rewarded for her skillful and compassionate care.