A few days before Christmas, in the heart of a challenging case on HRP involving a pregnant patient with exacerbated chronic hypertension requiring a thorough preeclampsia workup, Valerie Hobbs-Pender's dedication went beyond the call of duty. Val’s compassion and dedication illuminate a profoundly touching story. This patient, a refugee escaping political violence in her country, faced the daunting challenges of a high-risk pregnancy while beginning anew in the United States with her husband and four children, leaving behind their entire lives.

Val's intervention wasn't just timely; it was an act of heartfelt devotion. Recognizing the family's urgent need for shelter, food, and other essentials, she engaged our hospital's case managers, ensuring a vital connection to necessary resources. On Christmas Day, Val was not scheduled to work, but she came in for a surprise visit to this patient. She came dressed as one of Santa’s elves with a cart full of gifts (made possible by her own contributions, child life, and donations from peers) for the patient’s children. Christmas time is a time for hope, togetherness, and peace. This family was experiencing everything but that ever since their arrival to this country. Val was determined to spread some Christmas magic, and she certainly did.

Post-discharge, Val's commitment endured. She secured winter clothing and ample food for the family to ease navigating the frigid temperatures and their unique challenges. Discovering that the patient had not had a follow-up appointment since being discharged from the hospital, she collaborated with our antepartum residents on HRP to promptly address the issue and secure an appointment for this patient the very next day. Unfortunately, the patient's severely elevated blood pressures led to an urgent hospital admission, culminating in the heartbreaking intrauterine fetal demise of their unborn baby. The patient’s husband reached out to Val and informed her of what was happening. Val's support transcended professional duties as she volunteered, without a second thought, to stay with the patient's children overnight at the shelter to provide comfort during such an agonizing moment for the family. Because of Val, the patient and her husband were able to be together for the delivery of their beautiful baby, born silent. Val came to work her shift the very next day once the patient’s husband had returned to be with the children. She continued to be a steadfast source of strength during the patient's physical and emotional recovery.

This narrative is just one example of Val's consistent empathy, exceptional patient-centered care, and unwavering commitment. Through her actions, Val not only embodies the Mission, Vision, and Values of Inova, but also exemplifies Dr. Jean Watson’s Caritas Processes— that caring is the very essence of nursing— furthering her contribution to compassionate healthcare. Her story stands as a testament to the profound difference one individual can make through genuine empathy and humanistic, compassionate care. Val's unwavering dedication during this patient’s profound journey underscores the transformative impact a caring nurse can have on lives in moments of hardship.