In honor of National Doctors’ Day, celebrated each year on March 30, UW Health gathered messages of gratitude from patients, families, and coworkers to share with its outstanding faculty members. Department of Pediatrics providers received 86 appreciation messages from both patients and colleagues. We are delighted to share excerpts from some of the messages here.
Visit the online Kudoboard to read general notes of appreciation to all UW Health doctors.
For Jessica Babal, MD, associate professor and interim academic division chief, Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine: I just had to write a note and let you know how much I appreciate you! As you know, prior to having you as my PCP I had some really bad experiences that caused me to be scared of going to the doctor and making necessary appointments. However, when meeting you, I could tell instantly that you actually cared about what was going on in my life and wanted to help me feel better (both mentally and physically). I will miss you so much as I transition out of pediatrics.
For Christian Capitini, MD, associate professor and division chief, Division of Hematology, Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant: We are so blessed to have Dr. Capitini as my son’s hematologist for the last 10 years. He was instrumental in saving his life, and we cannot thank him enough. Since then, he has been like a family member. Always caring for my child as if he were his own son. He is always available no matter what and is one of the most brilliant doctors I have ever met.
For Aaron Carrel, MD, professor, Division of Endocrinology & Diabetes: Thank you for being one of the best of the best!! You are such a joy to have as a provider for my daughter. When she was diagnosed with alopecia you worked us into the schedule so we could go over what this might mean for her hypothyroidism. We appreciate you and feel so lucky to have you as a provider!!
For Kenneth DeSantes, MD, professor, Division of Hematology, Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant: We are so grateful to have had Dr. DeSantes while our daughter was receiving treatment at American Family Children’s Hospital. She looked forward to the days when we would get to see him because he would always do a card trick or two for us before our visit. I don’t think we ever saw the same trick twice! At each appointment, he truly invested his time in our visit and made us feel heard and valued. We appreciate all he did for our daughter and the relationship we built with him during her treatment.
For Andrea Jones, MD, associate professor, Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine: You came to us in a time that felt like a tornado. Recommended by a coworker, we went into your office with literally multiple hot messes on several levels. However, you went above and beyond, and you have no idea how much that means. As we navigated the waters, you never felt like we called or MyCharted too much, even when I did! I am happy to say we are finally in a place where I am starting to understand my child on a deeper level. You have always made us feel like we are a priority, even when I know there are many that are far worse. We are so grateful for your continued care.
For Anne Marsh, MD, associate professor, Division of Hematology, Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant: Thank you for everything you have done for my daughter and me. Words cannot express how much you have changed her way of life. She is almost living her life as a normal child. I feel so comfortable with you as her doctor. I trust you with all of her medical care. Can’t wait to continue this journey with you through her illness.
For Megan Neuman, MD, associate professor, clinical services chief, Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine: I have the privilege of both having you as a family care provider and as a colleague at UW Health. Thank you for providing remarkable care to my two children for the last six years. Telling them your name when getting ready to see you eases some anxiety from all of us because we know we’ll be welcomed with the sweetest “hello, friends” and instantly know this is not an intimidating space. Thank you for everything you do!
For Daniel O’Connell, MD, associate professor, interim division chief, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition: As a parent, entrusting my child’s health to someone else can be daunting, but you quickly earned my trust with your thorough explanations, patience, and willingness to address all of our concerns. Your commitment to excellence in health care is truly commendable, and we are immensely grateful to have had you as my child’s doctor.
For Amy Plumb, MD, associate professor, Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine: I don’t know where to even start! There is no way I could have raised my children without you. You gave me so much guidance and support, especially when my child was a baby and I had no idea what I was doing. You were also so kind and compassionate to me and the kids. They all love you so much. And so do I! I will truly never be able to express how much you have meant to me.
For Alexandra Schultz, MD, assistant professor, Division of General Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine: I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding care and attention to detail you provide my daughter. Your expertise, professionalism, and genuine compassion truly made a difference in her healing journey. We’ve felt completely reassured and supported under your care. Thank you once again for everything!
Messages were edited for length and clarity and to preserve anonymity.