Walker received a VUMC Credo Award for her dedication to that patient and to quality and safe respiratory care for pediatric patients.

Seven years ago, asking questions was not possible. Ivan, who is nonverbal and nonmobile, had no way to communicate. What he was thinking, feeling or wanting was always a “best guess” for his mom.

The mission of the ATS is to promote the respiratory health of children and adolescents and to improve the care of children with respiratory disease through research, education, patient care and advocacy.

“In the OR, kids don’t have anyone except the doctors, techs and nurses taking care of them. They can’t speak for themselves. I realize the privilege and responsibility I have to those kids, and I’ve felt a lot of purpose in my role.”

This year’s Home with Heart Raffle marked the third time that Willow Branch Homes has donated a home to support Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

Until 2004, Nashville was the only city among the top 25 in the nation that didn’t have a freestanding hospital dedicated to serving children and their families.