Abby was the first person who greeted my family and I as we checked in to the Labor and Delivery unit at LVH-Cedar Crest to do the most difficult thing that I have ever done: give birth to a baby I knew was not alive anymore. At 21 weeks, my husband and I had been given the news that our baby had passed away but still had to be induced and deliver the baby. For two nights, Abby was my nurse. From the very beginning, Abby was compassionate, professional, and accommodating. During such a difficult time she was a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on and a strong presence who held my hand (literally) and talked me through labor and delivery. Before every dose of medicine, checkup, or procedure, Abby was sure to fully explain what to expect and answer any questions I had. I could tell that nursing was not just her job, she truly cared and was personally invested in making sure that I was informed and comfortable. This was unlike any care I had ever received before.
After delivery, Abby continued to show what an amazing nurse she is. During such an emotional time, she remained professional and helped talk me through and keep me grounded when making really difficult decisions about my stillborn baby. In my opinion, she went way above and beyond her job description as a nurse. Each of my family members who were there with me commented on her attentiveness, kindness, and compassion.
Although my reason for being in the unit was extremely sad, Abby was a glimmer of hope and light. Instead of focusing on the pain and sadness of the experience of giving birth to a stillborn baby, I am choosing to focus on the amazing care I received by such a compassionate nurse and she will always be in my memory.