A simple gesture with a profound impact

At UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central, patients and staff alike are reminded daily of what compassion looks like in action. For Dwann Watson, a patient transporter known for his warmth and quiet generosity, that compassion is second nature.

It was a recent routine moment at the pharmacy that revealed something extraordinary. Nurse Manager Melissa Bauer found herself in line behind Watson as he waited with a patient preparing for discharge. As they chatted about the patient’s return home, the mood shifted when the cost of the necessary medication was revealed — and it was more than the patient could afford.

“The patient seemed a little embarrassed,” Bauer said. “She was digging through her bags, clearly flustered, and trying to figure out how she could pay.”

Without hesitation, Watson stepped forward and scanned his employee ID badge to pay for the prescription.

“I am happy to do this for you,” he told the patient. “This is what I would do for my family, and you need your medicine to get better.”

The gesture struck Bauer deeply. “It warmed my heart to know that I work in a facility with amazing people like Dwann. If this isn’t improving lives, I don’t know what is.”

For Watson, compassion and kindness is something he learned early.

“My mom is a nurse, and she was always going out of her way to help others,” he said. “She raised us to volunteer at a young age and always give back. That’s always stuck with me.”

Watson’s commitment to others extends beyond his day-to-day duties. He’s currently pursuing a master’s degree in social work at the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs, with a goal of advancing social justice and supporting underserved communities.

His dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“Dwann is an outstanding employee who consistently puts the patient’s needs and comfort first,” said Kurtis Pittman, manager of transport services at MHC. “He truly cares about every interaction and treats every patient with respect, compassion and professionalism.”

Watson doesn’t stop at one role. In addition to working full-time in patient transport, he picks up shifts as a radiology assistant in the CT department — another example of his drive to serve where he’s needed most.

“His willingness to go above and beyond in both roles speaks volumes about his dedication to our mission,” Pittman said. “We’re incredibly lucky to have him as part of our team.”

For Watson, it’s simple. “Helping people just feels right,” he said.