Viktoriya Baraya 2, BSN, RNC-MNN, C-EEFM

Viktoriya was with me and my husband throughout our whole labor and birth. She guided me through contractions by offering me different movements, breathing techniques, and affirmations. Her experience and support helped me cope with the pain and get through some tough parts. One affirmation that really stuck with me was that she said "the only way out is through". This resonated with me so much that I continued to breathe and repeat the word "through" to get through the rough contractions. Viktoriya stayed with us past her shift end to help bring our baby boy into the world. She massaged me while in labor, cleaned me up, kept me hydrated, and guided me through pushing. Her experience and care and compassion for me while I was going through the worst pain of my life helped me to get through the majority of my labor naturally without pain medication. She made my birth memorable and I could not thank her enough for being there for us.

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