Lupe is an amazing nurse who found her calling within the labor and delivery unit. During my labor, she demonstrated the PeaceHealth vision ensuring that I always received "safe compassionate care, every time, every touch." Each time she entered my room I knew I would be treated in a loving and caring way. Although her mask obscured her face, I knew there was a friendly smile underneath.

I was not a typical laboring mother; I was acutely ill with pneumonia. My providers recommended an emergency c-section from the moment of admission, but we declined and compromised on close monitoring with the hope of delaying delivery as long as possible. I was only 37 weeks pregnant and didn't want to deliver prematurely. My situation was complex, yet Lupe exhibited outstanding clinical skills. I was nervous about complications and the potential for my condition to deteriorate yet, I trusted my care in Lupe's hands. Lupe maintained a calm, confident, knowledgeable demeanor that helped ease my fear and anxiety. She was very attentive; frequently checking on me despite the hassle of isolation precautions.

The day I finally delivered was stressful as I was diagnosed with blood clots to both legs and potentially my lungs which prompted an emergency c-section. I was glad Lupe was my nurse during delivery, the relationship she had developed with me prior helped put me at ease. She worked hard to provide excellent care while constantly expressing compassion and kindness. Our baby girl was delivered at the very end of her shift, and it was at this time that we found out Lupe shared a birthday. She went all shift working hard to provide exceptional care and keep me stable yet was reserved and never mentioned to myself or staff that it was her birthday. I felt blessed that our daughter shared a birthday with such an amazing person and at the same time felt sorry that she spent so much time and effort caring for me on her special day.

Due to my acuity, I was transferred from the labor and delivery unit to a medical unit. Because of unit visitation restrictions, my husband and baby were not allowed in my room. The next day I was an emotional wreck. I was so upset that my heart rate was extremely elevated. At this time a nurse walked into my room. I initially assumed it was in response to my heart monitor alarming but instead was relieved to see Lupe's friendly face. She came to check on me at the perfect time. She immediately noticed how emotional I was and although she was probably busy and intended our visit to be quick, she was patient and never appeared rushed. Her presence provided much-needed comfort and care. During our talk, she showed empathy toward my situation. She understood how difficult it was for me to be separated from my newborn. Although she couldn't change this, she tried to advocate for me and help in other ways. She knew that breastfeeding was important to me and realized I was having trouble expressing milk. The lactation consultant had not seen me and although Lupe tried, she was unable to arrange a visit. Instead, she was able to use some creativity and collaboration with the lactation consultant to provide some helpful advice and assistance.

Lupe consistently went above and beyond while providing care. She continued to keep in touch with me throughout my hospital stay and was a tremendous blessing during what was one of the most stressful times of my life. PeaceHealth is fortunate to have such an exceptional nurse on staff and she deserves to be recognized for her care. It would be an honor to express my gratitude for her through recognition as a DAISY Nurse.