July 2026 Honoree
Aileen Chin, RN
As a first-time mom, I did everything I could to prepare for labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. I read the books, did my research, and carefully planned for my son's arrival. Despite all of that, nothing can truly prepare you for how life-changing childbirth is. During such a vulnerable time, having a nurse who is kind, compassionate, patient, and knowledgeable makes all the difference—and that is exactly who Aileen was.
From the moment she cared for us, Aileen took the time to educate us, explain every step of the postpartum process, and make sure both my husband and I understood what was happening. She didn't simply answer our questions—she invited them. She made my husband feel just as included in our son's care and empowered both of us to make informed decisions together.
One moment in particular stands out. As I was experiencing the overwhelming emotions of the postpartum period and struggling with breastfeeding, my son was cluster-feeding while I had not yet begun producing milk. Although my husband and I had previously agreed to circumcision as part of our birth plan, when the time came, I could not bear the thought of my newborn being taken for the procedure while I felt he was still hungry. I felt pressured by time and a "now or never" feeling due to logistics (future insurance coverage, etc.). My husband and I found ourselves at a standstill, unsure of what to do.
Aileen approached the situation with remarkable compassion and discernment. Rather than rushing us or telling us what to do, she calmly listened to our concerns, provided us with the information we needed, and helped us work through our decision together. She also advocated for our son to receive donor milk before his procedure. That simple act of advocacy eased my anxiety tremendously. Knowing that my baby would be nourished before the procedure and that I would bring him home with milk in his belly gave me an incredible sense of peace during one of the most emotional moments of my life.
What makes Aileen exceptional is that she didn't just provide excellent clinical care - she met us where we were emotionally and treated us with dignity, patience, and genuine kindness. She recognized that new parents need more than medical expertise; they need reassurance, education, empathy, and someone who truly listens.
The birth of a child is a day a family remembers forever. Because of Aileen, when I look back on my son's birth, I don't just remember the uncertainty and challenges - I remember feeling supported and respected. Her compassion turned an overwhelming experience into one filled with calmness and confidence.
My husband and I are deeply grateful for the extraordinary care she provided, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
From the moment she cared for us, Aileen took the time to educate us, explain every step of the postpartum process, and make sure both my husband and I understood what was happening. She didn't simply answer our questions—she invited them. She made my husband feel just as included in our son's care and empowered both of us to make informed decisions together.
One moment in particular stands out. As I was experiencing the overwhelming emotions of the postpartum period and struggling with breastfeeding, my son was cluster-feeding while I had not yet begun producing milk. Although my husband and I had previously agreed to circumcision as part of our birth plan, when the time came, I could not bear the thought of my newborn being taken for the procedure while I felt he was still hungry. I felt pressured by time and a "now or never" feeling due to logistics (future insurance coverage, etc.). My husband and I found ourselves at a standstill, unsure of what to do.
Aileen approached the situation with remarkable compassion and discernment. Rather than rushing us or telling us what to do, she calmly listened to our concerns, provided us with the information we needed, and helped us work through our decision together. She also advocated for our son to receive donor milk before his procedure. That simple act of advocacy eased my anxiety tremendously. Knowing that my baby would be nourished before the procedure and that I would bring him home with milk in his belly gave me an incredible sense of peace during one of the most emotional moments of my life.
What makes Aileen exceptional is that she didn't just provide excellent clinical care - she met us where we were emotionally and treated us with dignity, patience, and genuine kindness. She recognized that new parents need more than medical expertise; they need reassurance, education, empathy, and someone who truly listens.
The birth of a child is a day a family remembers forever. Because of Aileen, when I look back on my son's birth, I don't just remember the uncertainty and challenges - I remember feeling supported and respected. Her compassion turned an overwhelming experience into one filled with calmness and confidence.
My husband and I are deeply grateful for the extraordinary care she provided, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.
Thank you, Aileen, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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