Leigh did an incredible job supporting me through my labor. As a first-time mom being induced at 34 weeks for severe preeclampsia, my birth was anything but easy and was quite scary, but I would never describe it as traumatic. I know the reason I was able to make it through without being traumatized is that I had a compassionate, knowledgeable, respectful nurse caring for me who always asked for my consent and gave me all the tools to make informed decisions about my care during birth. Leigh advocated for me when I was at my most vulnerable and unable to advocate for myself. She held my hand and coached me through the most difficult, scary, beautiful experience of my life, and helped me welcome my son into the world safely and with confidence that we were both going to be cared for well.

When I had to make big decisions for myself and my baby, Leigh supported me, gave me time to make them, and took extra time to explain everything to me thoroughly. When I was crying, terrified of starting the labor process, Leigh stopped what she was doing to get me ready, stood next to me, held my shoulder, and talked me through how I was feeling. She acknowledged my feelings of fear and encouraged me at the same time. When I was ready to push, she coached me through it and became my biggest hype woman. When I was sick after birth, Leigh advocated for me to get the correct medications to control my nausea quickly and made sure I did not suffer. When I started to become too lethargic after birth, she collaborated with her team and advocated for a provider to come see me at the bedside immediately. I am so thankful that I was treated with such dignity, care, and respect. I will never forget the kindness she showed me. She is an incredible nurse.