About a week ago, one of our minor patients experienced a deeply personal tragedy, experiencing sexual assault from a family member. In the conversation that followed, her emotions fluctuated greatly, and her status was very unpredictable. It was clear that the grief was affecting not only her emotional state but also her ability to engage with her care.​
Throughout this difficult period, Crystal demonstrated exceptional compassion and professionalism. She approached each interaction with care, using the Heart-Head-Heart method to gently address concerns and frame difficult messages with sensitivity and reassurance. Even when the patient struggled to understand or needed things repeated, Crystal remained patient and kind, never rushing the process.​
Her care extended beyond the patient. When the patient’s family expressed their heartbroken concerns, Crystal noticed they, too, were carrying the emotional weight of their daughter’s trauma. She took the time to speak with them, again using the Sandwich Method to ensure communication was clear and comforting. Recognizing the signs of ongoing emotional strain, she thoughtfully recommended therapy/counseling to the family as a potential support resource and submitted a report to Child Protective Services on behalf of the victim. Crystal not only helped the patient but also advocated for the family, and that is what makes her an excellent candidate.