During my rounds yesterday and today, a patient couldn't stop talking about Cathryn De La Cruz from Labor and Delivery. The patient would like to nominate her for the DAISY Award and has a special request. She is eager to be informed when Cathryn receives the award, as she values Cathryn's care and would like to celebrate her achievement. Below is what she wrote:

My family and I want to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation to Cathryn for her outstanding care and support during the labor and delivery of our son. Cathryn's remarkable patience and unwavering dedication were evident as she guided us through critical decisions without ever making us feel hurried. She took the time to thoroughly explain every aspect of the process, empowering us to make well-informed choices that were best for our family. Cathryn's gentle and compassionate approach throughout the labor was truly remarkable, always placing my comfort and well-being at the forefront. We will be forever thankful to Cathryn for contributing to the incredible and memorable experience of bringing our baby boy into the world.

***

She was my nurse all night while I was in labor. She spoke to me in Spanish, which made everything more comfortable for me. It was always her priority to ensure that I was comfortable, and she never made me feel like my pain was exaggerated. She always did everything possible to get me what I needed. She took my hand while they put in my epidural and constantly encouraged me by saying that I was doing very well. When my epidural failed and I couldn't bear the pain anymore, she stayed in the room with me and didn't leave my side. She gave me the strength to listen to my body's needs. This experience was a mix of love and faith.