My 13-year-old son was hospitalized after a surgery for a ruptured appendix. We stayed in the pediatric unit for over a week, undergoing an additional procedure to address a postoperative abscess. The week was scary, emotional and exhausting for every member of our family. From our first interaction with Pam, we found her presence to be nothing but positive, encouraging, and kind. She deftly switched between a consoling ear for me and a skilled medical practitioner for my son. It was her encouragement that got him up out of his bed and moving around for the first time, several days post-op. I also overheard her guiding a colleague, clearly new on the job, with positive feedback and a total lack of judgment. Every single nurse on that peds unit made a significant and positive difference in our lives during my sons stay. Pam's presence seemed to light up whatever room she was in and made those around her feel her light. We are so grateful.