Anyone visiting the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit at MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) would always be uplifted by the warm hugs and kind smiles of Laura McLaughlin.
“Laura has been an amazing member of the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology staff. She’s laughed, hugged and cried with the patients and their families in good times and sad times.” These kind words from co-worker Noreen Rizzo describe just some of the qualities that made Laura McLaughlin, now retired, so valuable and treasured by patients, families and staff. Her service to all truly went above and beyond as she looked for any way to ease pain or discomfort. Finding a wheelchair, hand delivering samples to avoid waiting time, picking the exact right sticker for a child…these were all equally important to Laura because she knew they mattered to the person on the other end.
Mary Huang, MD, reflects on the difference that Laura made. “There are reasons that the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Unit gets high ratings for staff courtesy and helpfulness. Laura is one of them. She has selflessly offered to help in any way possible, always with professionalism, calm and kindness.”
Ms. Rizzo echoes these sentiments. “Many families have commented on what a difference it makes to know that Laura is there for them in any way they need. Laura has made a difference in the lives of every patient, family, and especially her coworkers, by simply being who she is and always giving hugs and words of wisdom and support to everyone she encounters.”
