I am pleased to nominate the Perinatal Department for the DAISY Team Award, not as their Unit Director but as their patient. Like many women, I had a tough time getting pregnant. It should be noted that the care and attention I received from my doctor and her team in helping me achieve a successful pregnancy were impeccable. Throughout my pregnancy, I always felt I was being cared for as if I were their own family. Always encouraging me to reach out if I needed anything. Again, she works for the department, so this is a courtesy, but I know in my heart that this is how they constantly communicate with their patients. When I found out I was pregnant, there was never any doubt that I would deliver to Santa Monica. I see the care and attention that the team provides to their patients and how they handle emergencies and unforeseen events, and already knowing that the 'nurse curse' is real, I knew this delivery would not be without a bit of excitement. Following a beautiful pregnancy, I was ready to go for my induction!

Throughout my labor, my nurses were absolute angels. In the middle of the night, when I was in horrible pain, I threw myself over the nurse's station desk. Before I knew it, I had lavender hot packs stuffed around me, massages and counter-pressure to my back, and just a good laugh with everyone as I cursed my way through labor. As my labor progressed, my day shift nurses must have been in my room every 30 minutes the entire shift, if not more frequently. Repositioning me constantly to help my baby tolerate labor, to help me progress, and to get me a successful vaginal delivery. After hours of pushing, my little man arrived in my arms. It became evident that something wasn't right, and I tried my best to enjoy the moment, but I always knew something didn't seem reasonable.
 
As I began to hemorrhage from a retained placenta, we decided to go back to the operating room. When my incredible anesthesiologist came in the room, I remember saying, "Please stay with me" because she had placed my epidural and was so attentive to any pain needs, I had during the day. While it was now nearing the end of her shift, I just trusted her and knew I wanted her with me for the rest of this exciting experience (she says sarcastically). The doctor agreed, and off we all wheeled to the OR. I honestly never for a moment was afraid for my baby, as I knew my team was right there with him during this first hour of his life. Now, on the other hand, I was convinced I was going to die and even vocalized that to my poor staff. As I wheeled to the OR, I can vividly remember starting to pass out, but when we rolled in and I saw what felt like my ENTIRE L&D staff standing in there waiting to rock and roll, I honestly, in my heart, knew that I was going to be completely fine. I get choked up now thinking about it because I know this happens to patients all the time, but to have a nurse call in my face and tell me, "You are going to be ok," followed by a big hug, I went to sleep knowing I was going to see my little guy in no time.

Following my delivery and all that came with it, I was transferred to Postpartum, where the impeccable care continued. Every nurse and care partner who entered our room and cared for us was above and beyond. My lactation consultants were patient and encouraging and listened to my questions. It is so different being a nurse and then being a first-time parent. You forget everything you know or thought you knew. They helped my partner and me feel confident and ready to go when it was time to take our baby home. I knew how amazing this team was, but to feel and experience it firsthand was another thing. Their cohesiveness at every twist and turn of a patient's stay, their ability to act quickly, and their comfort; nothing is done without the utmost love and attention in their heart. I could call out the individual staff who directly cared for me, but it takes a village, and there is no way not to recognize the team as a whole for this nomination. THANK YOU, Perinatal!