
At West Tennessee Healthcare University Medicine, compassionate care extends far beyond medical treatment, it’s about meeting patients where they are, even in their most difficult moments.
Recently, a young mother faced an overwhelming challenge. After the heartbreaking loss of her weeks-old infant to SIDS, she was still navigating fresh grief and intense anxiety. Her postpartum checkup was approaching, but the thought of walking into a waiting room filled with smiling mothers and babies felt unbearable. How could she possibly manage?
That’s when Katrina Ing at UT received a call from a perinatal bereavement counselor working closely with the grieving mother. The counselor explained the mother’s situation and asked if an exception could be made for her appointment. Could she be seen at UT’s North Campus, a location where expectant mothers and children are rarely present?
Because of her bereavement training, Katrina immediately understood the gravity of the request. She quickly approached her supervisor, Kelli Nanney, to see if this was possible. Without hesitation, Kelli responded:
“Absolutely, we can make this happen.”
Kelli worked directly with Dr. Gregg Mitchell to ensure the mother’s special needs were prioritized. Together, they arranged for her postpartum visit at the North Clinic, where Dr. Mitchell would personally see her and address both her physical recovery and emotional well-being.
Within hours, the plan was in place. The mother’s fears eased as she realized she could attend her appointment without additional emotional pain. Thanks to the compassion and quick action of Katrina, Kelli, and Dr. Mitchell, she received the care and support she needed during an incredibly difficult time.
This story is a powerful reminder that true healthcare is about more than medicine—it’s about understanding, empathy, and going above and beyond for those who need it most.
Updated: August 1, 2025