I am overwhelmed with emotion as I recall the incredible, humane, dignified, generous, loving, and dedicated care I received from Laura when I was admitted to the hospital for labor induction. It is an incredible feeling to know there is a complete stranger who is so committed to supporting you during the most vulnerable moments of your life. By the time Laura's shift began, I had already been induced for four plus hours but with little progress in my labor.

When Laura came to introduce herself to me, she asked if I had a birth plan and sat with me for almost an hour, going line by line on my very detailed birth plan to ensure she understood what it was I was hoping to get out of the birthing process (aside from a healthy baby and healthy mama). She asked lots of questions to ensure she understood correctly and also offered other options that I did not know were available to me. It was then that Laura began to set herself apart from the rest. She demonstrated incredible empathy and dedication to helping me have the birthing experience I wanted.

Without going into too much detail about my birthing plan, she advocated for me along the way and went out of her way to obtain the sole Bluetooth monitor for me, all of the birthing equipment I had requested, and other items I had requested. Once my contractions began, Laura was right there next to me, holding my hand and helping me breathe through each painful wave. When the pain became overwhelming, she immediately, at my request, worked with the sole anesthesiologist on the L&D floor to provide me with care ASAP. During this time, she helped not only me but also my husband, who nearly fainted during the epidural process.

Once the epidural kicked in and I was more at ease, Laura continued to check in on me and make sure I was doing okay and asking if I needed anything. While my labor progressed, Laura stayed by my side and answered endless questions I had about the birthing process. She helped me feel more confident about what was about to take place and what the next few hours might look like for me. When I began to push, Laura was coaching me and encouraging me. My birth quickly became complicated, and I needed to have an unplanned surgery right around the time when the shifts were scheduled to change. After 12 hours of supporting me, Laura was ready to stay overtime to make sure everything went well.

Laura was truly invested in my health, well-being, and positive outcomes. The following day, after my baby was born and shifts changed yet again, Laura visited me in the recovery room. I had tears in my eyes seeing this angel who supported me in ways I could have never expected. While my birthing experience was not what I had expected, it was an empowering experience nonetheless because of Laura. It is because of nurses like her who have the potential to make a negative experience feel more empowering and positive. There is no doubt in my mind that Laura loves what she does because she does it so well, and she brings 110% of herself to it. I will never forget her unbelievable compassion, and I am forever indebted to her for the humane, generous, and loving care she provided. Thank you, Laura, for being you and for gifting patients the honor of being cared for by you.