I first met Melvin when he came in for an unexpected tonsil abscess surgery. He was admitted to our hospital’s inpatient unit, and then traveled to my surgery unit to have surgery the same day. Due to the last minute scheduling, Melvin had a lengthy wait before it was his turn. Even though it was difficult, he was understanding and coped well during all of the uncertainty. A few months later, Melvin returned to the hospital to have his tonsils removed, and once again demonstrated patience and the same positive attitude throughout his stay. Melvin was kind and showed appreciation to all the staff providing his care.

He was nominated by his Child Life Specialist Amanda Sanborn at Integris Children’s at Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Kids Wish Network rewarded Melvin as a Hero for his positivity and bravery amid the unknowns of his hospitalizations.