Kathryn Sparger’s journey to becoming a Certified Child Life Specialist was inspired by her sister, who witnessed the incredible impact child life specialists have on patients and their families during her time in nursing school. This insight sparked Kathryn’s interest and set her on a path that she quickly fell in love with. “Child life is such a special career path,” Kathryn shares. “I’m so grateful to our kids and families who have invited me into their lives to care for them.”
Kathryn always knew that Nemours Children’s Health was the place she wanted to be a part of. The supportive and mission-driven environment at our hospital in Orlando has allowed her to thrive and provide the best care possible for her patients. Working with the Hematology and Oncology team has been one of the highlights of Kathryn’s career. “I absolutely love my hem/onc team. They are true heroes. They truly care so much and are deeply passionate about the work they do and the care they provide,” Kathryn expresses. She feels incredibly fortunate to be part of a team that is so dedicated and mission-oriented, always bringing their best to support the kids and families they serve.
The resilience and strength of the children and families at Nemours Children’s are what Kathryn loves most about her job. “All of our kids and families are the best. I get to see a lot of good and a lot of hard moments…the strength of our kids and families is inspirational. I’m always in awe,” she says. Kathryn values the collective effort of her team to go well beyond medicine, ensuring that every patient and family receives the comprehensive care they deserve.
Among Kathryn’s many cherished memories at Nemours, one stands out the most: witnessing children and their families ring the bell to celebrate the end of chemotherapy. “It’s so special to cheer on our families during this milestone that means so much,” Kathryn recalls. These moments of triumph and joy are a testament to the incredible strength and perseverance of the patients and their families, and they hold a special place in Kathryn’s heart.