At PediCare, our nurses are more than caregivers — they are the heartbeat of what we do. Every one of them carries a story, a moment, or a calling that led them to pediatric nursing.

In honor of Pediatric Nurses Week, we’re celebrating the incredible individuals who pour their hearts into caring for children and families every single day. Here are just a few of their “Why We Chose” stories — reminders of the heart, hope, and humanity that define PediCare.

- Tierra Williams, RN

For Tierra, her journey into pediatric nursing began with her own child’s story — one that shaped her passion and purpose.

“A few years ago, my own child—just three months old at the time—became critically ill. I’ll never forget rushing home and seeing him completely pale and limp. That moment changed everything for me. I realized how vulnerable children are and how much parents rely on compassionate, skilled professionals to guide them through crisis.”

That life-changing experience became the turning point in Tierra’s career. Once focused on adult care, she felt a new calling to serve children and families — to be the calm in the chaos and the knowledge in the unknown.

“Now, I want to be the nurse who brings calm in the chaos, knowledge in the unknown, and care to both children and their families when they need it most.”

Tierra says what drives her every day is the ability to offer other parents the same comfort she once needed herself. She’s learned that true nursing isn’t about checking tasks off a list — it’s about patience, connection, and compassion.

“Being a PediCare nurse means becoming a bridge between medicine and childhood. It’s about meeting kids where they are — whether that’s scared, silly, or strong — and helping them feel a little braver.”

For Tierra, pediatric nursing is summed up in one word: Heart.

- Ava Brewer, RN

For Ava, pediatric nursing has been a lifelong calling — one born from her own experience as a child.

“I was a pediatric patient due to a genetic disorder. Since then, I have always wanted to be like the heroes I met — a nurse. I wanted to bring the same comfort and wisdom my nurses brought me to other children and families.”

Now, as a Pediatric nurse, Ava says she finds meaning in watching her patients grow and celebrating every milestone along the way.

“Being a pediatric nurse is so rewarding. You get to see growth within the patient and their families. I get to be part of every milestone and adventure.”

Her patients have taught her perspective — and the value of love in its purest form.

“My patients have shown me what really matters in life — to love and be loved. They’ve helped me appreciate the things I once took for granted and reminded me that the simplest things often mean the most.”

Ava describes being a PediCare nurse as belonging to something bigger than herself:

“To be a PediCare nurse means to be included. I’m not just a nurse — I’m part of a family I never knew I needed.”

One of her favorite memories? A magical night at Disney World with her patient Brighton.

“After a long day at the parks, I got her ready for bed and we had a slumber party. She was so excited for the next day that she giggled over her trach all night. At one point her mom came out thinking she was choking from how loud she was laughing. I love being able to see her experience the magic that Disney has to offer.”

- Brooke DeWitt, RN

Brooke’s passion for pediatric nursing comes from her admiration for her patients — children who are “literally one in a million.”

“Each child is medically complex and often rare, so there are definitely challenges involved with their care. I get to advocate for families and help them function in healthcare systems and a world that often isn't built for them.”

For Brooke, nursing is equal parts skill and soul — providing education and advocacy while creating space for joy and laughter, even in hard moments.

“I get to play with my patients while helping them surpass the odds and expectations. If they can smile through the hard things, I can too.”

She describes that space between healthcare and compassion as something special:

“The space where joy and laughter combine with highly skilled care is magical. It’s sacred. What a gift to be a part of their journey.”

From Tierra’s story of turning a personal scare into purpose, to Ava’s lifelong calling, to Brooke’s devotion to joy amid challenge — each nurse reminds us that pediatric nursing is more than a profession. It’s heart work.

Every day, pediatric nurses bring knowledge, comfort, laughter, and love into the lives of children and families across Mississippi.

This week, and every week, we celebrate the nurses who chose this calling — and continue to live it out with courage, compassion, and heart.