Creative Photography featuring Michelle Allison, Michael Beacham, and their daughter, Mattie. At just 2 months old, Mattie Beacham was diagnosed with a rare liver condition known as biliary atresia, requiring a crucial liver transplant to save her life. She spent 185 days at Orlando’s AdventHealth for Children, where all 80 nurses in the hospital’s critical care unit played a role in her care. Following a challenging journey, Mattie successfully underwent the transplant, with her parents praising the hospital’s nurses for their unwavering dedication. The Beachams describe the nurses as a “warrior squad” who fought for their daughter as if she were their own. This heartwarming story showcases the incredible support and care provided by the hospital staff during Mattie’s critical time.
“One of the nurses, Amanda Hellner, played a crucial role in implementing an innovative treatment for Mattie. Allison recalls that Amanda, along with other nurses, pushed for the use of a tandem dialysis and plasmapheresis machine, a procedure that had only been attempted once in the country. Initially met with resistance from doctors due to the perceived risks, the nurses advocated for trying this unfamiliar technique, ultimately convincing the administration to proceed.
Nurse Nikki Sapp reflects on the challenging situation in the PICU, emphasizing the team’s commitment to exploring all possible treatment options, even if untested. The high-risk procedure proved successful, marking a pivotal moment for Mattie, who recovered sufficiently to undergo a transplant surgery upon finding a suitable organ donor. Amanda, the PICU’s nurse educator at the time, vividly remembers the emotional moment when Mattie regained consciousness after the lengthy surgery, a memory she cherishes as a defining experience in her nursing career.
Today, at two years old, Mattie exudes joy and positivity, bringing happiness to those around her with her endearing gestures. Her mother, Allison, expresses gratitude for the exceptional care provided by the nurses, whom she considers part of their extended family. The nurses have celebrated milestones with Mattie, including her birthdays, in a show of support and affection for the little girl they helped save.
Reflecting on their journey, Allison acknowledges the profound impact of nurses’ dedication and compassion on her perspective on life. Witnessing the nurses’ unwavering commitment through challenging circumstances has reshaped her outlook, emphasizing the importance of empathy and resilience in both professional and personal spheres.”
