Cassandra Marcelo, RN, MSN

As a first-time mom, I walked into the labor and delivery unit with an immense amount of fear. As a NICU nurse, my fear was even greater because of everything I see and know. Cassie cared for me during the night shift and the second part of labor, which was the most difficult. I was completely sleep-deprived and running on fumes. Cassie made me feel well cared for in a situation where I was most vulnerable. Near the start of her shift, we learned I had a fever, and the baby's heart rate was too high; the doctor was concerned, and the NICU would need to attend my delivery. Hearing this news made me jump to the worst-case scenario and left me extremely anxious. Cassie quickly intervened and was constantly in my room, helping get my fever down, changing my position to help me progress, and frequently changing my linens. She made me feel so well cared for during my most vulnerable time. She got my fever down and gave me a choice about whether I wanted the NICU team present.

Cassie was being so patient with me in all the moments I showed my anxiety, discomfort, and embarrassment. Anytime I apologized for the bodily fluids she had to clean up, passing gas, or complaining about my discomfort, she always said, "There's nothing you need to be sorry about." Once I got to 10cm, we started pushing. I distinctly remember at one point she said I was ready, and she would call the doctor to come to our delivery. I stopped her and said, "Wait! I'm scared; what if I'm not ready? What if she walks in and I can't push her out?" I was afraid they would resort to a C-section if I failed. She looked at me and encouraged me when she said, "You're ready. If you weren't ready, I wouldn't call her." I was in such a dark place for so many hours, worried about myself and my baby's health. Cassie helped by encouraging me throughout the process and keeping my husband and me well informed about what was going on. To Cassie: Thank you for making me feel like more than just a patient.