A final moment of comfort and compassion

Mia Barnes — a clinical social worker at UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital — embodies empathy, allowing quiet acts of compassion to guide her work.

When a Russian patient receiving comfort care in the ICU was left alone in her final moments, Barnes stepped in to be by her side. Though the patient was on life support and had become unresponsive, Barnes held the patient’s hand and played traditional Russian music.

It was a final gesture of comfort and connection.

“I wanted to honor her and help her feel at peace,” said Barnes. “Her family wanted to be there with her, but they couldn’t make it for the final moments. I couldn’t imagine what she was going through or feeling, but I didn’t want her to feel scared or alone.”

As Barnes sat with the patient, other care team members noticed when they passed by the room. They stopped to check in and offered to spend a moment with Barnes and the patient.

“It was touching to see the care team come together for their patient,” said Barnes.

“Working in the ICU, we’re here to support patients and families. Sometimes that support comes through simply sitting by their side and just being there for them.”

Michelle Moss, a care manager nurse at Highlands Ranch Hospital, commended Barnes for her exceptional, compassionate care in a recent Celebrating You nomination.

“In a moment where many would have quietly stepped away, she stepped forward. Mia’s presence brought dignity, peace and love to someone who needed it most. Thank you for reminding us of what it means to truly care. This act of kindness may not make headlines, but it defines the very soul of our work. You didn’t just do your job — you made a difference.”