Repeated acts of kindness in the winter months

As a registered nurse in the birth center at UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center, Dominique Welch is one of the care team members present when new life comes into the world.

“Life itself is quite miraculous,” she said. “It takes a lot for us to be alive and well.”

She first entered the world of health care as an emergency medicine technician, inspired by her role as a medical ski patroller with Steamboat Resort, a job she still holds.

“I enjoy taking care of humans, as I find human physiology and pathophysiology extremely interesting,” said Welch. “I hope the result is improving lives in promoting and perpetuating wellness.”

Her desire to care for others led her to do repeated acts of kindness in the winter months at YVMC – brushing snow from her co-workers’ vehicles at the end of her shifts.

“My husband, Chris, had surprised me with brushing off my car after a shift,” said Welch. “It was so considerate of him, and it was so nice to have one less thing to worry about after working a long shift.”

When she finishes her shift, Welch turns on her car so it can warm up and brushes off any new snow. Instead of then sitting in her car as it finishes warming, she takes the opportunity to continue taking care of others.

“I have the pleasure of working with an extremely thoughtful group of humans,” said Welch. “They support and assist me all the time. Brushing snow from their cars after we get off shift is the least I can do.”

Andrew Livesey is one of the house supervisors at YVMC who has been the recipient of a freshly cleared car.

“It’s a delightful feeling to come out of the hospital and not have to brush off your car,” he said. “The fact that Dominique does this is not the slightest bit surprising. She is thoughtful, caring and considerate.”

“We take care of each other at YVMC,” said Welch. “This is a small thing I can do to let my co-workers know that I appreciate them.”