My baby was born extremely premature at 24 weeks. Laura is one of the nurses who regularly cared for my sweet teeny daughter for her first few weeks in the NICU. She has such a warm, compassionate energy and always greeted me with a welcoming grin and “Hi, Mom!” during my visits in the purple pod. This was so comforting to me.

The most impactful moment I had with Laura was two weeks into our NICU journey. My daughter was intubated, on lots of support, and her monitor was alarming frequently this day. I was worried for my baby, scared to touch her, and feeling uncertain about the future. I was wrapping up my visit, looking at my tiny baby in her isolette, and I began to cry due to the overwhelming feeling of helplessness.

I was feeling the emotions that come with having to leave her there take their toll, knowing there wasn’t much I could personally do for my child at the time. Laura noticed this, came over, and spoke so much love, reassurance, and strength into me that day. She reminded me that I’m doing everything I can and that it all makes a difference. She coached me through placing my hands inside the isolette and embracing my daughter in what she called a “hand hug." She pointed out how this regulated my preemie’s monitor stats and explained how I could provide comfort to my baby. Laura facilitated an immense moment of connection for my child and me, one that brought so much peace to my heart. She even grabbed my camera to take a few photos of this moment. They are pictures I will cherish forever and can’t wait to show my daughter when she’s older.

I am truly grateful for standout nurses like Laura.