A nine month old girl, from Mexico City, was referred to Children's Hospital with the intent to determine the underlying causes impeding her weight gain and normal development. After a brain MRI was completed, the parents were devastated to learn that their daughter was diagnosed with lissencephaly, a life limiting rare genetic abnormality of the brain that results in severe psychomotor retardation, failure to thrive, and seizures among other concerning symptoms.

Luckily for this infant and family, Patty was their nurse numerous times during their hospital stay. Though Patty does not speak Spanish, her care, dedication, and compassion were able transcend the language barrier and put the family at ease. It was because of Patty’s caring and compassionate demeanor that they found the strength to battle through this difficult time. Although Patty was not able to change the unfortunate diagnosis this family was facing, she did make a profound difference. She made time to answer their every question, educated and encouraged them to participate in her care, offered a shoulder to cry on, shared kind words, and passed out her famous hugs. This family continued to praise Patty for being so compassionate and caring for not only their daughter, but for them, as well.

This is just one example of the work that Patty does day in and day out to make a difference in the lives of others. She comes to work every day with a contagious smile on her face lighting up the hallways for patients, families, and coworkers. Patty will tell anyone that will listen to how much she loves her profession, mainly the satisfaction of making a positive difference in the lives of patients and their families. Her years of experience shine through daily and are displayed through her outstanding clinical skills, compassionate care and commitment to excellence within the organization at Children's Hospital.