NICU BASED PHYSICIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD:

This award is for a NICU based physician, who went above and beyond the call of duty not only extending their hand and hearts to families during and after the death of their baby but throughout their healing journey by supporting the programs of the WNYPBN.  This dedicated physician was nominated by a group of her professional peers and the bereaved parents she has impacted.  The compassionate presence of a physician is not only crucial during the initial news given to a parent that their baby has died or that death is imminent, but also after this tragedy becomes a reality. 

Dr. Jayasee Nair, MD

Dr. Nair completed her Residency in Pediatrics and fellowship in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at the University at Buffalo.  Dr. Nair is part of UBMD Pediatric Associates caring for the tiniest patients at Oishei Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. One of Dr. Nair collogues state:  "I have worked with Dr. Nair the past couple of years and she has been extraordinary with her patients.  She is often called upon to provide consults to patients at OCH whose babies have been diagnosed with life limiting or life ending diagnosis.   She is professional, compassionate and empathetic while speaking with the families, answering questions and taking the time needed to fully explain the potential outcomes.  She is open and honest with the families and helps assist them with making difficult medical decisions in regards to  their babies care, while remaining supportive of their wishes and desires.  I remember one particular family in which she continued to monitor the patient after he was discharged home into Hospice care, checking in and even attending the funeral after his passing.   She is genuine in the loving care she provides." 

IN HER OWN WORDS:

I am honored to receive this award from the WNYPBN. As a neonatologist taking care of extremely sick babies, I am thrilled when I can successfully manage and send a healthy baby home to their family. However, it is even more humbling and important to support a grieving family as they navigate a different course for their child, one which involves taking home only memories. Each family I have had the privilege of supporting has taught me something-resilience, elegance and so much love in a time of grief.

Thank you to all my colleagues and our team at OCH NICU for
making a difference.   ~ Dr. Jayasee Nair, MD