'Always Smiling' NICU Nurse: West Chester Hero Amid Coronavirus

WEST CHESTER, PA — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through the coronavirus crisis. Patch has launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes

This submission comes from Douglas Smith, who nominated Katelyn Smith of West Chester.

Where the nominee lives:
West Chester

Name of the nominee:
Katelyn Smith

Name of the person who nominated the hero:
douglas smith

Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:
Yes

What does the nominee do for work?:
NICU nurse at CHOP in Philadelphia

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?
Kate started her nursing career in August, 2019 as a recent, highly ranked, PSU Nursing grad and had her choice of many nursing opportunities but chose to work the overnight shift at Childrens Hospital in Philadelphia in the NICU. While other recent graduates started careers in low-risk positions, Katie stepped straight into caring for critically ill infants. She, like others, never imagined a COVID-19 breakout but continues to provide the care for these children every day with her contagious smile and a commitment knowing she risks coronavirus infection daily.

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:
Kate is always smiling and caring for critically ill infants, reassuring concerned parents and working in an environment with considerable COVID-19 risks while saving lives.

Nominate your local hero: West Chester Heroes: Help Recognize Those Making A Difference