Susan made a connection with our family through her compassionate and giving spirit during the most difficult and overwhelming moments our family had ever experienced. Our son, S, was born at 24 weeks, 1-day gestation.
When S was six days old, we were informed of the severity of his IVH (intraventricular hemorrhage); it was a grade 4, the worst on the scale. Susan recognized our lack of understanding of this situation and recognized our deep suffering because of it. She suggested steps for us to have a greater understanding of procedures and his conditions.
There were several instances where Susan went above and beyond for our child. I cannot begin to describe each situation. Susan always made us feel comfortable when caring for our little boy. She taught us so many things while he was in the NICU. Susan was kind and showed genuine concern for S. She brought calmness to situations and was extremely reassuring.
The day we learned of our son's brain bleed was horrible. We did not understand what it meant for his future. I nearly fainted from feeling hopeless and thinking this was the end for our little miracle. In an overwhelming situation in which you've never been exposed to the circumstances, and you have no knowledge or understanding, when your emotions are like a violent storm, sometimes people rise to be your safe harbor, your guiding lighthouse, and your solid ground. This was Susan. She calmly reassured me that everything was going to be ok. She gave me hope. This will be a day I will never forget. Her taking my hand and looking into her eyes. She knew how to talk to me and bring me peace.