When I arrived at the Hillcrest Hospital OB/ED due to my water breaking at just 29 weeks, I was under the assumption that I would have to deliver the baby that day. When I found out I would not be delivering unless complications occurred, I was told I would be spending the remainder of my pregnancy in the hospital up until a max of 34 weeks pregnant (which would be a total of a 5 week stay in the hospital prior to delivery). As tears filled my eyes with the news, Zoya was quick to notice I was there (as we have known each other from previous pregnancies/admittance to antepartum) and made sure to comfort me.

Zoya immediately took me under her wing as if I was her own child and reassured me that not only would we make it to 34 weeks, but she would help me get through the long stay. Zoya not only is an amazing individual but an even better nurse. She is very thorough, makes sure we understand exactly what is going on and for what reason, explains things clearly, always asks if we are comfortable/have questions, voices our concerns for us when we feel as if we are not heard, etc.

I felt like I truly was taken care of when Zoya was my nurse. With COVID restrictions, my stay meant 5+ weeks away from my other two children (just 1yo and 2yo) and Zoya made sure to help with the transition and ensure that I was feeling OK and talking to them every way possible multiple times a day. She was always there for me to check-in on me, and chat about life to get my mind off the situation, among other things.

I truly don’t think I would’ve made it through such a long stay without the love and support I received from Zoya and have never met a more deserving nurse for this incredible award.