The highs and lows that come along with the first few days after giving birth can overwhelm any woman. When you include a C-section, your new baby having potential health issues, and the impatience of waiting with an active mind for tests to be run to find out if there are any other delays or disabilities that may potentially occur throughout your newborn child's life, the anxiety and fears can consume your every thought.
My husband and I decided early on that he would stay home with our son while I stayed at the hospital with our new baby. Therefore, the added support from my husband was a phone call away but still felt pretty far in some moments. Throughout my 2-5 day stay at the OSF Birthing Center, I was blessed to have Nurse Tara for most of my days. She acted as my nurturer, my cheerleader, my logical thinker, and my overall life raft. When I was in pain, she researched alternatives. When I was scared for my new baby, she laid all the facts out and provided healthy perspectives. When I was crying, she stayed by my side and listened (somehow knowing that's what I needed).
Finally, when I received some great news, she celebrated with me as if my joy were equally her joy. I recognize and greatly appreciate all the hard work nurses do every day for everyone that walks through the door. However, during a moment like having a baby, you do not expect to not have family around. Tara made me feel like I had family with me every day. She is a nurse that fights for less pain, less fear, more peace, and more sleep for new moms. I thank her for all the support she provided me.