Jennifer Jahnke, RN

I received the unexpected news that we were having a late-term pregnancy loss. I was devastated emotionally and unprepared for what was to come. That same day, we were admitted to the Mankato Hospital labor and delivery department to follow the process of what was next.

Jenn Janhnke was our nurse when we arrived. I'll never forget how she treated me, loved me, and reminded me of my control over the experience I was about to have. She consistently told me to advocate for myself and encouraged me to tell her and others when I'd reached capacity for answering questions, wanted them to come back later, or was having physical pain. When Jenn left her shift that night, I didn’t think we’d see her again, but little did I know, my induction would take a long time.

The next day, I felt hopeless. I was so emotionally and physically spent, as my body was taking a long time to progress, and I was grieving the loss of our unborn child. That’s when Jenn came back. I hugged her with tears in my eyes — she was the best part of that day. She talked about TV shows, family, life, and so much more, creating a true bond in what was one of the most traumatic times in my life. Through every process and decision, Jenn was there, even holding my hands and wiping the tears from my eyes. When Jenn’s shift ended on the last evening she was with us, she gave us a card. It was authentic and heartfelt.

I will forever be thankful for Jenn and the labor and delivery experience she gave me and my husband. Jenn made a lasting impact on my life over the course of 2 shifts in the way she “showed up” for me.

Jenn, you’re truly amazing. I couldn’t have asked for a better nurse.