The worst day of my life. It was the day the world I was planning changed as I delivered my precious baby girl, J, sleeping. A thought that I had never even thought would cross my mind. As I draw closer to my actual due date, along with working through my grieving process, a particular nurse is a recurrent thought. Bailey, I want to say thank you.

Bailey got me after the noise died, the adrenaline wore off, and the ugly reality set in. I don’t even think I had a moment when I didn’t cry. It was a whirlwind of emotions, rightfully so, and the biggest ones at that moment were anger and, of course, sadness. The moment that stood out to me the most showed me the kindest heart and wonderful nurse that Bailey truly is. Bailey had just gotten on shift; honestly, I'm unsure if she finished the report. I’m crying up a storm with my grandma and grandpa beside me. Our preacher was on the phone, and Bailey joined us in prayer. The prayer was extensive (but I’m not complaining, as I need every moment of uplift). She stayed for the whole prayer. After what felt like the first time that day, I got to talk about my daughter in a positive light. Bailey was engaged in my experience of the positive aspects before delivering. She provided me a break and normalcy, and at that moment, I got to be the excited expecting momma.

Bailey, I want to say thank you personally. The kindness you showed me will be with me for the rest of my life. You were patient with me and caring—the type of care you cannot fake to have. I’ll always remember this day, of course, but I will never forget your kindness and the grits you gave me that ended up being the first meal I didn’t share with my daughter, which I still appreciate so much. I love you, Bailey, and a thank you is not enough for the kindness you showed me.