Dr. Hannah Sparks, resident physician, Obstetrics & Gynecology, met Kennedy Burman, RN, Labor & Delivery, Parkview Health, on our very first day of residency, and she could tell immediately that she was a tremendous advocate for her patients. What she didn’t know, was the incredible bond they would go on to form.
Kennedy’s husband was away at military training, and she was facing the potential of delivering her twins early. “I kind of leaned on Dr. Sparks emotionally,” Kennedy said.
Around 23 weeks, while Dr. Sparks was on call, Kennedy began experiencing pain. “I could tell that she was really uncomfortable,” Dr. Sparks said. “I asked her if it was okay if we put her on the monitor to see what was happening.” Kennedy was admitted for preterm contractions.
Kennedy and Dr. Sparks spoke at length about early delivery and the best options for all involved. “We joked that I was always going to be part of her C-section team, no matter what rotation I was on or where I was at,” Dr. Sparks said. “It kind of just worked out. She ended up delivering on another one of my call shifts, so I got to be there for her.”
Exceptional care
Kennedy decided to recognize Dr. Sparks through the Parkview Health Foundation’s Guardian Angel Program, an opportunity for patients to honor exceptional caregivers. “She was compassionate, kind, caring and there for me physically, mentally and emotionally throughout my delivery,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy went above and beyond to make the day of the pinning special for Dr. Sparks, inviting her parents to drive up from Kentucky and her husband to fly in from Texas. “It felt good to give her an award she was so deserving of.”
For Dr. Sparks, it’s simple. “I think excellent patient care is just listening to your patients, making sure their voices are heard.” She confesses the recognition was powerful. “Getting a Guardian Angel made my whole year, especially as a resident. It makes me feel like I have had an impact on someone already, and I hope that I can continue doing that in my career,” she said. But the best part? The babies, of course! “I get to be in Kennedy’s life and watch these kids grow up!"
Learn more about gifts available through the Parkview Health Foundation Foundation here.
