Last week we had a patient who arrived with her 7 year old daughter. The patient was unable to provide care to her child and family resources were far away and unable to arrive for about 12 hours. We were, unfortunately, going to have to call DCF and have the child placed until family could arrive. Kelly had just completed a 12-hour shift in the ED and was scheduled for one the following day but she felt compelled. Compelled to take responsibility for this child and compelled to harbor her from the strangers she would be transferred to through DCF. Even though it was midnight and even though she was exhausted, Kelly asked if she could be responsible for that little girl. She set up a “sleepover” for the two of them in a closed section of the ER and provided a safe place for the little girl to sleep. Kelly did not expect thanks or gratitude; she selflessly provided care.

Upon being given to grandparents in the morning the little girl hugged Kelly and told her, “that was the best night of my life.” I believe that Kelly proved to us all that night that compassion and selflessness still exist in this ugly healthcare world. I know for me personally, she motivated me to give my best self in the hopes that I can one day impact a life the way she has forever impacted that little girl's life.