Susan was my nurse during my unexpected early labor and delivery. My water broke spontaneously on a Friday night at 31 weeks, and I was admitted. Susan was my nurse on Monday and Tuesday during the day shift. I was having a hard time because I also have a 7-year-old daughter at home, whom I was away from during this time, which was difficult.

Susan’s care was nothing short of phenomenal. She made me feel at ease and in good hands during this very trying time. She was so attentive and was always happy to answer my questions or even make quick small talk to help distract me. Her checks were always very thorough. I know she was doing her job, but she truly did it so well that it made me feel like I was getting special treatment. Monday night, I was telling my husband how I hoped she would be my nurse again during my stay and how I enjoyed her being my nurse that day. Tuesday morning, I found out she would be my nurse again. It was looking like I was going to be there for some time, as the goal was to keep the baby in as long as possible. Then unexpectedly Tuesday early afternoon I started having horrible contractions very quickly. Susan became my official one-on-one nurse at that point to get me prepped for delivery. She acted so quickly and calmly and legitimately made it feel so seamless and smooth, even though so much was happening all at once.

I was in a lot of pain and very vocal about it. When I began to feel embarrassed and defeated, Susan continued to reassure me and help me through each difficult contraction. I think the universe just knew I needed a person like Susan to be by my side during this process. By 3:48 pm on Tuesday, my baby boy was born. Susan continued to give me the best care while I was on the labor and delivery unit. My after-birth care continued in the same manner. She was beyond attentive, made sure I had all the things I needed, checked on me regularly, always made me feel seen and heard, and just truly had the best personality and calming nature. Susan made my birth experience the best one, even though it was early and unexpected. I could not have asked for a better nurse, and I am truly thankful for all she did for me during the birthing process. She is truly one of a kind. I wish I could give her a big bonus check for outstanding care and compassion. Any patient would be lucky to have Susan as part of their care team.