We brought our eight-day-old baby to the CHKD emergency room and he was admitted straight away for ten days. Being new first-time parents, anyone could imagine the stress and worry that we were going through. It was a tough time seeing our eight-day-old baby go through the extensive tests he had to go through. At the beginning of our stay, it was less than ideal and we had some issues. The nursing staff was professional and caring; however we still sometimes felt like our son was ‘just a patient’.

On day seven of our son’s treatment, he was transferred to the NeuroScience Unit. This was when we met Nurse Sharlynne Wermter. We asked to be called when he received medication, which was every six hours. Nurse Sharlynne called and gave detailed accounts of how our son was doing. She cradled him and held him at every chance she got, giving him the same attention that his mother would. The amount of attention was the same as if his mother and I were there. She also was attentive to us as new parents, talking to us and relating to us as a parent, and sharing experiences.

She changed my whole idea of what a nurse is and left a lasting impression on my wife and me. Being a Police Officer and my wife a Teacher we appreciate when someone cares and is passionate about the profession and the level of devotion they give. Nurse Sharlynne: it may have seemed like a regular day to you, but you made a lasting impact. You set high standards for any care our son ever receives and will be mentioned throughout his life. I appreciate your care for our son; even if the time was short, you will be remembered to us as the standard of medical professionalism.