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Learn how Jonathan Ward reached out to a toddler whose parents faced a devastating event.

The compassion shown by a UVA Health University Medical Center pediatric respiratory therapist has helped him to earn a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

2024 BEE Award Committee Vice Chair Victoria Gibbons and Jenny Ernest, Nursing Governance Coordinator, Nursing Professional Governance Office, surprised Jonathan Ward, RRT, RRT-ACCS, with the award.

Hannah Fox, MSHA, BSN, RN, RNC-NIC, Inpatient Charge Nurse, NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit), nominated Ward:

"A baby in the NICU that was moving toward redirection of care. The parents arrived for the first time to visit and had a toddler with them because of a lack of support. They wanted to hold their baby and get the baby baptized — before removing the breathing tube. The toddler required a lot of their attention, removing their attention from their passing baby.

"RN staff tried to take care of the toddler, but the toddler was not interested. Jon made an attempt — and the toddler warmly jumped in his arms! Jon proceeded to entertain and comfort the toddler for more than an hour, so the family could focus on making memories with their dying infant. Jon took the child for walks, found toys to use in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), and provided comfort — making a lasting impact on the family."

Know a Deserving Team Member?

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with a BEE Award recognizing how they work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another. Submit a nomination.