Mary Beth Nichols Named Child Life Specialist of the Year
Mary Beth Nichols, of Latham, a child life specialist at the Melodies Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders was nationally recognized as Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ (CMN) Child Life Specialist of the Year. The award is presented by Love’s Travel Stops, one of CMN Hospitals’ corporate partners.
Nichols was surprised with the award while surrounded by family members, patients, and colleagues. She was nominated and selected for her exemplary demonstration of integrity, work ethic, perseverance, focus, and innovative thinking. The award also includes a $20,000 gift in Nichols’ name to the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Med.
“The Child Life Specialist of the Year award honors the extraordinary individuals who bring comfort and joy to children during some of their most challenging moments,” shares Aimee J. Daily, PhD, President and CEO of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “We are deeply grateful to Love’s Travel Stops for their unwavering support, which empowers us to recognize these vital professionals and invest in their continued work. Their partnership directly translates into brighter days and stronger futures for children and families at our member hospitals.”
As a child life specialist, Nichols helps children and families cope with the stress of hospitalization. Child life specialists provide preparation for procedures, age-appropriate education, pain management strategies, family psychological and emotional support, and more. For six years, Nichols has worked at the Melodies Center, which is the only childhood cancer center in the region.
Reflecting on the award, Nichols said, “I am so touched. This is like a dream. I am in awe that people see my passion for being a child life specialist. I love what I do, and I’m honored to do it!”
Support for Albany Med’s child life program comes exclusively from charitable giving.
“Child Life professionals are what make our children’s hospital the incredible place it is,” said Barbara E. Ostrov, MD, the Chief of Service of the Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital. “Mary Beth Nichols epitomizes the ideal Child Life team member in her work in the Melodies Center. We are extremely thankful for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Love’s Travel Stops for this prestigious recognition.”
The Bernard & Millie Duker Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center is one of 170 CMN hospitals in North America. Funds from CMN are raised and stay local.