Rocky Parra was enjoying her leisurely morning as her son Matthew was home for the day due to a school staff work day. As she enjoyed her coffee, Matthew’s voice rang out.

“Mom, I broke my hand!”

These are words no mother wants to hear, especially on what was supposed to be a quiet, lazy, no-plans sort of Monday. Rocky sprang into action and discovered that Matthew had not broken his hand, but rather severely cut it. She grabbed the first pearly, white washcloth she could find, and brought Matthew into the bathroom to assess the cut and stop the bleeding. After a quick assessment, she determined he’d need stitches.

As Rocky and Matthew headed to the Studer Family Children’s Emergency Room, Rocky was amazed at her son’s calm demeanor. Rocky informed the triage nurse of Matthew’s autism and after completing the paperwork, Matthew and Rocky were escorted to an exam room.

While in triage, each medical team member took the time to explain each step to Matthew and made an effort to make him feel as comfortable as possible. The nurses made sure to engage with Matthew to distract him of his pain and discomfort as he was stitched back up. Rocky was impressed by the medical staff who clearly provided empathy and care, especially as not everyone understands or “sees” Matthew.

Thanks to the unwavering compassion and dedication of the medical staff at Studer Family Children’s, Matthew's Emergency Room visit was transformed into a surprisingly positive experience which for a kid like Matthew those moments becomes priceless.