I came to the progressive care unit after five days in the ICU for postpartum preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. From the moment I opened my eyes in the morning, Marjorie was there for me. She knew I had been separated from my baby since my admission to the hospital and that I was disappointed not to be in the MIU so that my baby could come back to the hospital to be with me. Marjorie worked with her supervisor and my doctors to enable an exception to the rules allowing my sweet week-old baby to come to visit with my sister during the day. This helped restart my breastfeeding relationship with my daughter and enabled my healing tremendously. Marjorie’s attentiveness and kindness were limitless. She paid close attention to my habits and needs and was ahead of me every step of the way with blankets medications water and other necessities before I even realized I wanted them. She followed my medical progress closely and celebrated with me when I hit milestones - in particular when my water restrictions were lifted, she offered to get me my first cup of coffee in ten days (I cried).

Additionally touching was how Marjorie treated my family. My sister extended her stay in Florida indefinitely when I was re-admitted putting her life (and sleep) on hold to care for my husband, toddler, and newborn. When my sister would bring my baby to the unit Marjorie made sure my sister had plenty of coffee, water, wipes, and even an extra pillow when she went to "rest her eyes" while I held my baby (Marjorie also covered my sister in a comfortable sheet while she napped). Marjorie always emphasized my reasons to get up each day by asking me about my children and family. She brought me back to life by sharing stories of her own life interacting with me in a manner of friendship that this extrovert was craving after a year in a pandemic let alone five days in the ICU. Marjorie made me feel safe healed and comforted. She is a gem to her area, and I am so grateful to her.

Note: This is Marjorie's 2nd DAISY Award!