I wanted to share my praise and thanks for the labor and delivery nurse who cared for me during my labor.

We found the HUGS card but my thoughts wouldn’t fit on the card so below is what I would have written:

Maddie encompassed every aspect of HUGS and more. 

Helpful: She was welcoming and explained things in a digestible way, she made sure that everyone had what they needed and always went above and beyond to make sure this scared, exhausted, soon-to-mama understood what was going on and made sure I knew what options were available. In addition, she was willing to track down some orange popsicles, my preferred flavor. 

Understanding: Maddie demonstrated understanding in numerous ways; she knew the skills needed to be a nurse, and she knew when to take a moment to laugh with us, and when to spring into action and move with purpose. She knew how to make me feel seen and heard. 

Gracious: She willingly went on hunts for preferred flavor of juice and popsicles. Even behind her mask, I could tell she was smiling. 

Special send-off: While the delivery did not end in the manner we expected. Maddie found me in the Operating Room to share her congratulations and say goodbye. Even when she could have been heading home, she took the time to say bye to us, which meant so much to me. 

Words truly can’t express the gratitude and appreciation I have for her. In a delivery that seemed to take so many twists and turns, her assurance and care provided me with much-needed peace. 

I am not sure if you are able to share these thoughts with Maddie, but I wanted to make sure that I expressed my sincere thanks and appreciation for her hard work.