I feel compelled to first recognize that the entire team of nursing professionals on the Pediatric unit of Tift Regional Medical Center who cared for my grandson during his recent hospital stay was wonderful. Every nurse and patient care tech on each shift was incredibly kind, compassionate, and friendly. I was impressed by the way each team worked so cohesively together and displayed dedication and professionalism to other teams by assisting across shift changes.

My grandson is 10 years old and tough as nails, typically fearless in any situation, with one exception; he has extreme anxiety concerning IVs and needles. It was quite a traumatic experience and took a great team effort to insert the IV. He became very nervous any time the IV had to be touched for any reason. He did not even want anyone to touch it when it was time to be removed. I want to share the story of how one special nurse made removing the IV before he was discharged much less frightening.

Melissa Kinsey, RN showed extraordinary compassion and helped my grandson work through his fear. She very patiently allowed him to remove the tape by himself from his arm. As you can imagine, this took some time. My grandson was able to take control of the situation and slowly work the tape off a little at a time. She gave him little alcohol pads to gently rub along the edge of the tape. This may seem like a small thing to some, but for a child with this fear, it is an enormous kindness.

Melissa understood his anxiety and creatively allowed him to maintain his dignity and build a sense of pride in his accomplishment. It is clear that in addition to clinical skills for the physical healing of her patients, Melissa also possesses a true concern for how her young patients feel emotionally. Melissa deserves this DAISY Award. Her incredible compassion showed true respect for my grandson’s feelings. This was a great comfort for him and for his family.