Jess Mailloux, RN

As a first-time mom, pregnancy came with countless hopes and fears, especially around my health and the well-being of my baby. During my 38-week appointment for a non-stress test with Labor and Delivery, I met my nurse, Jess. This was supposed to be a routine check, but Jess noticed that my blood pressure was unusually high. Sensing my rising anxiety, she took my blood pressure again. When it was still high, she acted immediately, alerting the on-call midwife and arranging lab work to investigate further. I was there alone, scared and unprepared – Jess’s calm, steady presence was my anchor.

Throughout the next few hours, Jess came in frequently to check on me, helping me to stay calm and informed as we waited for next steps. When my lab work indicated a likely diagnosis of preeclampsia, Jess took the time to sit with me, explain everything, and walk me through the next steps. She guided me through calling my husband to tell him he needed to come to the hospital; our baby was going to be born sooner than we expected. Once admitted and induced, complications arose, and it was soon decided that I needed a C-section. I was terrified! But Jess was with me every step of the way. She was even in the OR as I delivered my baby boy, and she stayed with him so that my husband could sit by me and hold my hand.
Due to my diagnosis, we had a bit of an extended stay. Every shift Jess worked, she came to check on us. She was always attentive, reassuring, and compassionate – making what should have been a traumatic experience feel safe and manageable. Jess’s vigilance and dedication meant that our beautiful son is here with us today. Had Jess not looked deeper into my high blood pressure that day, the outcome could have been so different. Words cannot fully express the gratitude my husband and I feel. We owe so much to Jess, and we know she embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for.