The scariest thing for any parent is having a sick child. It’s even scarier when the child has to be admitted to the hospital. When my son was admitted, I knew how hard it would be for both of us. My anxieties increased when the time came to have an IV placed in his arm. It was during this time and throughout her various shifts that Nurse Marlene showed both me and my son compassion that went beyond her duties. Nurse Marlene was very patient as she addressed every concern, never judged me when I kept crying, and listened when I asked to ease my child’s fears by providing him a break before attempting to put in the IV line again.

She showed my son such respect, despite him being a toddler, she recognized and acknowledged his level of intelligence. She communicated with him knowing that he was not the average three-year-old. She informed him of everything she was going to do before doing it. She made him smile and comfortable, thus making our stay more pleasurable. She never became annoyed when he asked for endless ice chips, changed his mind about what he felt like eating, and even paused to watch him test his hypothesis. I saw the mother in her become more apparent with every interaction. She lessened his anxieties and mine. She saw the worry on my face and reassured me that I’m still a good mom despite him not being fully potty trained. I left the hospital happy and satisfied with the care my son received. I also left the hospital reassured that I can do this task, this amazing task of being a mom and that I will be fine.

Before she signed off from her shift she made sure to come to say bye and tell me that I am an amazing mom. I teared up in the bathroom. Nurse Marlene is nothing short of amazing. NYU, in general, has an amazing staff, but I wanted to recognize this ANGEL in disguise as a pediatric nurse. My son and I will always remember her and I will always remind him even though I doubt he will ever forget her.