August 2022
Olivia
Cook
,
W-CEN, BSN, RN
Cancer and Blood Disorders Center
Seattle Children's Hospital
Seattle
,
WA
United States

 

 

 

Our son was shocked and said, “You would actually do that for me?” Olivia said, “Absolutely, I will do whatever to help you get through this.”
Olivia knew how upset and anxious our 15-year-old son was about his weight loss and the potential of getting an NG tube placed. He was told the day before by a different nurse if he doesn’t eat more carbs and calories, he would have one placed. What made this so upsetting to him was literally that same day he was cleared of his carb counting and insulin corrections which he had been limited on for over 1 week. Olivia told him, “I’ve got you buddy. I make an awesome protein milkshake, you can taste all the flavors before to see what you like which will give you lots of calories and nutrients you need. I also make mac and cheese with extra cheese to get you more calories and fats.” Our son was shocked and said, “You would actually do that for me?” Olivia said, “Absolutely, I will do whatever to help you get through this.” Next thing you know, all protein flavors were delivered, he selected chocolate, and a milkshake and mac and cheese were in his belly. I know this may seem simple to some, but in a time when anxiety and stress were already so high, this made a huge difference in his mental state. As parents, we were very impressed with how Olivia handled him bringing a smile to his face, and hearing our boy say, she is so nice and that made me happy, was one of the best parts of our days.