I would like to recognize Christele RN, in L&D, for her exceptional care and support during one of the hardest and most vulnerable moments of my life. I had really wanted a vaginal birth, but unfortunately, I required a caesarean birth, which gave me overwhelming anxiety for months. Christele patiently listened to all my concerns, walked me through the details of the procedure, and answered all my questions with clarity and compassion.

Her understanding nature helped me feel safe, and her encouragement made all the difference in my emotional journey leading up to the birth of my daughter. When my daughter's birth was scheduled, Christele adjusted her schedule so she would be my nurse. She told me she was there for me and would be with me every step of the way. The morning of my caesarean birth, I saw Christele smiling at the nurses' station, and she asked me, "How are you feeling?" I almost broke down into tears with gratitude at seeing her. She brought me into the pre-op area and took her time going over things step by step because she knew it would help me with my anxiety. When she walked me into the operating room, I was nervous, but knew she would take great care of me. I sat on the table for anesthesia to insert the needle into my spine (my biggest fear), and Christele had me lean over and hold her in a tight embrace while she kept reassuring me that I was ok and I would get to meet my daughter soon. When the procedure was done Christele came over to me and my daughter in her arms and congratulated my husband and I on our sweet baby girl.

I was so grateful to have her taking care of my daughter and I. Christele's kindness and patience helped me overcome my fear of a caesarean birth and made the entire experience much more positive than I would have imagined.

Christele, thank you for the exceptional care and compassion you gave me during such a vulnerable time. I appreciate you going above and beyond to make me feel safe.

Note: This is Christele's 4th DAISY Award!