Kris, my daughter, is a master's-educated healthcare worker who was violently assaulted at work. A patient punched her in the face so hard that a bone was broken. The patient bragged about it, repeated that he’d do it again, and mocked her to staff the next day. The injury was missed on the initial X-ray, and Kris was told to return to work almost immediately on “light duty,” despite her broken bone, severe pain, dizziness, nausea, headaches, and fear.

What makes this even harder is that Kris is still a student, working toward her PMHNP (Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner) degree, and is a devoted parent to two children. Now, she is out of work during Christmas, struggling physically, emotionally, and financially — with no real support from the place she has dedicated herself to. Healthcare workers are human beings. They deserve protection, respect, and compassion. Kris deserved better.

I’m asking for help to support her recovery, cover lost income during the holidays, and remind her that people DO care. Your support will help Kris provide for her children and continue her studies while she heals. She would never ask for help, so I will ask for her. Thank you for helping Kris and her family during this difficult time. -Mom