After a grueling 15 hour labor (+5 hours active) I can look back upon my experience with a grateful heart and an appreciation for one person, in particular, Kelly Guerrieri. She was by my side throughout the birth of our first child and I could not extoll sufficient praise on her. From start to finish, Kelly projected calm confidence. I was already apprehensive about the process. The idea of putting the care of both myself and my baby in the hands of total strangers was trying enough. From the moment I met Kelly, I immediately knew that I was in the best hands. In all honesty, she felt like family and did everything possible to make our experience outstanding. My husband was a bundle of nerves as well and aside from making sure that I was ok, Kelly took the time to chat with him and my sister who was also present during delivery. Her communication with my OB-Gyn was seamless and I felt supported and part of a strong team. I would not have been able to labor as long or been as calmly had it not been for the gentle reassurance and excellent patient care provided by Kelly.
Northwestern Lake Forest has found its most valuable nurse in the delivery process. My family and I were so floored by Kelly that I actually asked for her information so I could stay in touch with her. During these long hours, we bonded immensely. While there certainly was a flood of hormones and emotions on my part, I can attest to the fact that my entire family felt exactly the same way I did. I was not treated like a patient-I was treated like a family member. From helping me through each wave of contractions to making sure my doctor was aware of every change in progress. Kelly was on top of every little detail. Seeing her post-delivery was a gift! She made us feel so loved and cared for. I will not forget the simple act of fashioning a baseball cap out of the newborn caps so that our son had appropriate attire to match his Cubs onesie. In this corporate healthcare environment, Kelly has brought the love, attention, and care so desperately needed. Kelly should be in charge of all nurse training and orientations. However, she should also be face to face with the most important part of the hospital services, the patients. Kelly is acutely aware of the zeitgeist of patient care in our current times.