Melanie helped me through the labor and delivery of my daughter. She respected my personal goal to labor without medication and she gave me the strength I did not know I personally had. I cannot possibly thank her for all that she has done. It takes a special person to help convince you to complete this large task of laboring, medication free. Every second she helped rub my aching body. She continued to read my birth affirmations in my ear and even made time to make me laugh. Laughing while in pain is almost an impossible task. However, she is beyond talented at her job. Near the end of my labor, I was almost inconsolable about how I couldn't manage the pain any longer. Somehow Melanie was able to give me all the strength she, herself, had. I was ready to give up, but Melanie convinced me otherwise, that being brave was possible. Although she was the last nurse to step into the labor process, she was the most impactful. I am beyond grateful there are women in the world who can change and improve women's laboring and, dare I say, give women strength. She was amazing beyond any words I can write. I have deep gratitude for this hardworking and beautiful person. I am forever grateful for everything she has given me.