My daughter, A, was a patient of CHOA @Scottish Rite. A was born with a giant omphalocele and a number of other birth defects. My husband and I met Melanie Granier shortly after our daughter was admitted. After hearing about the "primary list" I quickly added her to A's list! Melanie cared for my daughter as if she were caring for her own child. I was able to get some rest when she worked knowing that A was being provided the best care possible.
Melanie took the time to explain the things I didn't understand. She helped me to learn to care for my medically complex child. She taught me to be a voice and an advocate for my daughter. Melanie celebrated small milestones with me, even just gaining an ounce of weight. She cried with me during the setbacks and rough patches. I knew I could always count on her to give me straight answers when it came to A's care and/or condition. She wouldn't sugarcoat anything but would tell what was going on in the kindest and most caring way possible.
My daughter never came home from the hospital. I split my time between the hospital with A and home with my young son who was 1 year old at the time. The hospital became my second home and everyone there became family, some more than others. Melanie and I still keep in touch and I value her friendship.
Melanie went above and beyond her call of duty as a nurse. Not only is Melanie an excellent nurse, but she's also an amazing person. I could never repay her for the care she provided for my daughter.