Alyssa Spingola, BSN, RN C-EFM

I was induced on the 29th with my second baby, attempting a VBAC. As my induction stretched longer and longer, the 29th became the 30th, which was my birthday.

Alyssa was the most amazing nurse. She was positive and encouraging. She helped coach me through three hours of pushing. She went and got a small bouquet of flowers to put by my bedside since it was my birthday, which really brightened my mood after 24 hours of labor!

Then, when baby just would not descend, and we made the decision to switch to a C-section, she stayed around even after her shift had ended to see if my baby was a boy or girl. Feeling her presence behind me on the operating table, after having her with me for such a long, physically and emotionally challenging labor, was so incredibly encouraging.

Then, after my sweet, healthy baby boy was delivered and we were in the recovery room, she reappeared with a small gift from the nurses on the unit she had gone down to the gift shop and bought herself - some candy and cupcakes. By this time, it was quite late in the night; my whole birthday focused on delivering my baby.

Having those small touches to help me feel loved and supported throughout the process was so kind. It was truly above and beyond her normal role, not to mention beyond her normal shift! I think about her so often and feel so grateful for her support.