Kayla M Webb, RN, C-EFM

I was a patient at New Beginnings Maternity Unit at Atrium Health Lincoln. I gave birth to our daughter in June of this year. My nurse that I got immediately upon check-in was Kayla, and she was with me the entire weekend as I went through labor. I was in 30 hrs of labor, and Kayla was my day nurse. When I was in pain and could barely sit still for an epidural, Kayla was there squeezing my hands, holding my head up, and reassuring me every single step of the way. Throughout our stay, she was constantly my saving grace. It felt like my friend was taking care of me and not a nurse whom I had just met 48 hours prior. When it was time for baby girl to arrive, Kayla was there, walking me through every step, keeping me calm. She was incredible. I had her for 3 out of the 4 days. And I never wanted, I never went without, and she constantly checked in and seemed as though she so deeply cared for us, my wellbeing, and our child. After birth, when it was time to attempt to go to the bathroom, I was shaking beyond comprehension, crying, and apologizing that she was literally having to help me wipe my butt. She looked at me and said, "Stop apologizing. It's okay. You just had a baby; this is normal". It made such an impact, as someone who likes to do things themselves.  Being in a male-dominated job where I can't show weakness (I am a police officer), it's what I needed in that moment to know it was okay to be vulnerable and need help. Comforting doesn't describe Kayla enough. Loving, compassionate, kind, friendly, and down to earth. Her last shift on our third day, when she said she wouldn't be back the next morning, I literally cried. If we ever decided to have another child, I pray it's Kayla at the maternity ward when we check in, helping me once again. If a nurse is wondering what a new mother needs during this vulnerable time of giving birth, just tell them they should observe and take notes from Kayla.