When Tropical Storm Debby made landfall in early August, people braced themselves for the worst. While the storm forced others to stay put, one Aveanna nurse let nothing stop her from seeing her patient.
Nurse Kim has cared for 2-year-old Charlie for the last 6 months. During that time, she has forged a strong bond with Charlie and her family. With the tropical storm approaching, Kim didn't think twice when it came to planning for Charlie's care.
"After the storm hit, flooding closed roads and other means of transportation," said Kim. "I knew I had to get to Charlie, so I drove through the waters to get to her house. Getting to my patients is so important to me. They're not in the hospital, but they still deserve the same level of care."
Kim was initially able to drive to and from Charlie's house safely, but soon, the rising water levels trapped her car. Kim didn't let this stop her from getting to Charlie each day. She cared for her during the flood by carpooling with Charlie's great-grandfather. To Charlie's parents, this proved Kim's devotion to their child.
"Kim could have told us that she wasn't comfortable driving through the storm, but she pushed through for us," said Charlies's mom. "Kim woke up earlier for my grandfather to come pick her up and always had a positive attitude. She even made my Papa his favorite kind of cookies as a thank you for him taking her back and forth."
Charlie's family has seen Kim's selflessness and dedication for some time. Charlie was born at only 26 weeks gestation, weighing only 12 ounces. She finally came home for the first time after 472 days. With Nurse Kim, Charlie has hit developmental milestones and is no longer on a ventilator. Charlie's family has cherished her progress and thanks Nurse Kim for her help and support.
"From the very first day, Kim has been amazing with Charlie," said Charlie's mom. "After Charlie came home, I had to go back to work and relinquish some of that care and trust. It was so scary for me at first, but Kim has made it so easy for me to know that my medically fragile child is in the best hands possible."
Kim's presence in their home has also given Charlie's mom time to focus on Charlie's twin sister. Kim often joins Charlie and her mom on family trips to museums and other outings each week, where she cares for Charlie while her mom explores with Charlie's sister. The care that Kim provides allows Charlie's mom to bond with her other child while knowing her daughter is safe and happy. Kim is more than a nurse; she has become a source of strength and compassion for everyone in the family.
Kim has not only supported Charlie, but also our whole family. She is like having a friend with us. It's like she's become part of our family," said Charlie's mom. "She's been there for Charlie as much as she's been there for us, and that's something we couldn't be more thankful for."
Whether its through her daily care or during extraordinary circumstances, Kim is always there for Charlie and her family.
If you're interested in working with patients like Charlie to provide life-changing care, learn more about our opportunities here.
