When my newborn baby was admitted to the NICU, I was overwhelmed with fear and helplessness. The beeping monitors, the sterile environment, and my tiny baby surrounded by tubes and machines made me feel disconnected, like I wasn’t enough to help.

But then, there was Nurse Dawn. Every Nurse in the NICU went above and beyond to care for my baby, but Dawn stood out.

From the moment Dawn introduced herself, she exuded warmth and compassion. She didn’t just see my baby as another patient—she saw us as a family. She explained every tube, every monitor, and every procedure in a way that made me feel included, empowered, and capable. I remember her saying, "YOU’RE still the most important part of your baby’s care," and she was determined to show me how.

Nurse Dawn gave me back my confidence and reminded me of the power of my presence for my baby. Through her skill, patience, and kindness, she didn’t just care for my child—she cared for my heart as well. I was hospitalized for 3-4 days and endured all new experiences that left me fragile, even as a nurse myself, and it was hard to express. I just want to thank her for the laughter and extra time she spent with me.