Lauren Brown, a nurse at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), has been recognized for her commitment to families and newborns. Brown was awarded the 2024 Community Service Award by AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, highlighting her dedication both inside and outside the NICU.
Brown has spent more than a decade working in the NICU, where she supports parents through difficult moments and celebrates milestones with families. She describes her motivation: “What inspires me every day are these tiny little fighters that I get to take care of. It’s such an honor to see firsthand how strong these babies and families are and walk alongside them in their journey.”
One of Brown’s favorite moments is when patients are discharged from the unit. “There’s just nothing like giving them big hugs before they leave to go home and start their lives, officially! We make tiny graduation hats and diplomas, and it’s made even sweeter when families celebrate and cheer alongside our NICU staff,” she said.
Brown plays a significant role in organizing the annual NICU Reunion at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, an event that brings together former patients and their families. “It’s my favorite day of the year,” she said. “These families mean so much to us. Getting to see them again, give hugs, celebrate how much the graduates have grown is incredibly special.”
Her connection to the hospital is personal; Brown was born at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission and was once a patient in its NICU herself. After completing her nursing capstone there as a student, she has worked on the unit for 11 out of the past 12 years.
After briefly leaving Kansas City for Colorado in 2020, Brown returned one year later. She explained her decision: “I realized that Kansas City was where I wanted to take root, that being close to my friends and family was crucial. And I couldn’t wait to be back amongst this incredible team, who are more like family.”
Brown emphasizes the support within her team: “The support we give each other on this unit is unmatched. There’s deep trust and friendship. You don’t even have to ask, someone just steps in when you need it.” She adds that this camaraderie extends beyond work hours.
“That kind of bond makes you not just a better nurse but a better friend, a better daughter, a better person,” Brown said.
She states that recognition is not her goal; rather, she works out of personal conviction due to her own experiences as both patient and caregiver: “The team, the families and AdventHealth’s mission of extending the healing ministry of Christ matter to her.”
AdventHealth Orlando—where Lauren Brown’s story reflects broader organizational values—is located in Orlando, Florida. Founded in 1908 with Terry Shaw as its current president, it serves as both a pediatric facility and training hospital (https://www.adventhealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-orlando).
