My little J was in the Special Care Nursery for over a month. Even though J was my third child, (3rd boy), I was scared, concerned, and for the first time, lonely. This is the first time I have had the responsibility of taking care of a baby all by myself.
Sarah was immediately taken to J's strawberry blonde hair. She would talk to me about how unique and beautiful it is. I would often come into the nursery to see Sarah rubbing his hair while talking to him in a soothing, sweet voice.
Before long, I would come to the Special Care Nursery in the mornings to find J in Sarah's arms while she was at the computer working. He was so content, whether he was awake or asleep, just listening to her voice. She always talked to J and the other babies so sweetly. I never saw her get frustrated or "just going through the motions" of her job.
I have never met a nurse so down-to-earth, compassionate, and truly loving to her patients. So many times, I saw her do things that were above and beyond the duties of her job as a nurse. She never left a baby in a crib to cry. She always stopped what she was doing to help someone who needed something.
Many times, Sarah asked me if I was ok, if I needed anything, even if it was just to talk. Sometimes I did need to talk about my fears or "vent" about my situation as a single mom. She was always full of advice. She really listened. She cared about what I said and never judged.
Every morning when I arrived, Sarah was prepared to tell me J's weight, how much he ate, and if he had done anything cute or funny that I may have missed while I was gone.
Sarah was always ready to talk and give advice about caring for a smaller baby. She was knowledgeable about breastfeeding and taught me so much about motherhood. Even though J is my 3rd boy, it has been over a decade since I have cared for a baby.
It isn't easy spending 14 hours at a hospital every day, not knowing when I will be able to take J home and having to leave him in the hands of others each night. Sarah made my time spent at the hospital, not only tolerable but many times enjoyable! We had any long talks that helped ease my mind. I always knew that J was in loving, caring, and knowledgeable hands.
It is so apparent that Sarah truly loves her job. She has a beautiful spirit and a warm, loving personality. She a perfect fit for caring for special babies and their worried moms.
I am truly thankful that my J was under Sarah's care. I could not be happier to write this story. I am so happy to have the opportunity to nominate such an awesome person for the DAISY Award. Nobody deserves it more!