We came to Aurora Labor & Delivery with a PPROM & lost our little boy. It was, unequivocally, the worst day and experience of my life. In the darkest depth of my grief, I try to think about Nurse Tanya, whose gentle presence and loving-kindness helped me through. Nurse Tanya sat on my hospital bed with me, holding my hand, brushing away my tears, and gently trying to prepare me to go through labor and losing my son. She gave me answers to questions I didn't even know I had. She helped me understand what would happen and gave me advice like suggesting I hold him. I didn't understand why, and she carefully explained how he would be alive, but pass shortly after, and it's important that he was in my hands as it happened.

I don't how what I would have done without her. Nurse Tanya's shift ended at 7 PM that night and even though she had worked a 12-hour shift and had kids at home, she sat with me until 7:30 PM. Tanya's presence, care, and love helped me. To this day, it still helps me. The depth of her compassion and loving-kindness is truly remarkable.

Note: This is Tanya's 2nd DAISY Award!