![Katy Welkie and Groot the dog](/-/media/images/caregiver-news/childrens-health/2023/09/katy-and-groot-copy-1.png?la=en&h=504&w=896&mw=896&hash=9C1BA8731F588BF044024FF91021835F8B3E1DED)
In the summer, I have to walk him early in the morning or late at night because he melts in the summer sun. But Groot thrives in the fall.
Fall is a time of contrasts. We have crisp, cool mornings and warm, sunny afternoons. I feel contrasting emotions: I’m excited about the fall colors and the harvest from my garden, but I’m also sad about summer coming to an end.
Emotions tend to shift like the seasons, as they should. Experiencing the full range of emotions is healthy. More and more, we’re realizing how important it is to express our emotions.
Today we’re announcing the new Intermountain Children’s Health brand, including characters inspired by the range of emotions our young patients may feel as they come through our doors. All emotions are good, so fear and sadness are represented alongside hope and joy. We want everyone to learn to more fully acknowledge and express their emotions in healthy, authentic ways.
It’s a nice reminder for us caregivers, as well, as we navigate our own emotions. In any single day, I pass through moments of excitement and anxiety, frustration and joy.
Let me tell you how I’m feeling now. I'm feeling proud. I’m incredibly proud of our Primary Children’s Hospital nurses for achieving Magnet recognition. I'm proud of the work that's being done throughout Intermountain Children’s Health in engagement and patient experience and safety. Our caregivers are a force of nature, shaping a world where patients receive the best care.
I hope you feel proud, too, but if you’re feeling something else, that’s not wrong.
All emotions are good.