Caring for caregivers: A calling to lead with compassion

PARKER, Colo. — For Hannah Eaton, Nurse Manager of Pre-Op, PACU, GI, PAT, and Pain Management at AdventHealth Parker, nursing has always been more than a career -- it’s a calling rooted in compassion, faith and a desire to walk alongside others during life’s most challenging moments.

“In my 20s, the Lord laid it on my heart to find ways to share His love and care for those in need,” Eaton said. “I enjoy science, caring for emotional needs and coming alongside people in hard times, so nursing was the perfect fit.”

Her passion for health care was also shaped early on by personal experience. Growing up, Eaton watched her brother undergo several surgeries and saw firsthand the impact nurses can have.

“I was surrounded by nurses and saw the difference they make,” she said. “That stayed with me.”

Over time, Eaton’s “why” has evolved. While she began her career focused on patient care at the bedside, her transition into leadership has expanded her perspective.

“Now, I’ve found that I truly enjoy caring for nurses, too,” she said. “Caregivers face so many challenges, and I feel honored to support my team and come alongside them in their work.”

At the core of Eaton’s leadership is a deep connection to AdventHealth’s mission.

“Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ means caring for the whole person -- both our patients and our team,” she said. “It’s about being a light during difficult moments.”

She sees that mission come to life every day through her team. Whether preparing patients for surgery or supporting them in recovery, Eaton says her nurses go beyond clinical care to meet emotional and spiritual needs.

“I see them take time to listen, to pray and to truly be present,” she said. “Patients find peace in the midst of anxiety, education in the unknown and hope when facing the unexpected.”

Eaton is equally proud of the culture at AdventHealth Parker, where compassion and teamwork are at the forefront.

“We have a culture of assuming good intent,” she said. “You see it in how teams collaborate, how we communicate and how we support one another.”

For Eaton, the team she leads is a constant source of inspiration.

“They’ve created an atmosphere of kindness and generosity,” she said. “I value their insight, their creativity and simply how they care for each other.”

One patient experience continues to guide her even today.

“I cared for a patient who had experienced a traumatic injury and was with us for a long time,” Eaton said. “She showed incredible resilience and kindness, even in such a difficult situation. On my hard days, I think of her strength -- it reminds me to keep going with compassion.”

Today, whether supporting patients or empowering her team, Eaton continues to lead with purpose -- extending care, building connection and creating an environment where both patients and caregivers can feel whole.