My husband and I had been praying for a baby for years. Once we finally found out we were expecting and made it through that first trimester, I was faced with a sub-chorionic hematoma. The sound of the diagnosis alone was enough to scare me, but knowing that it was cause to be monitored more closely caused some anxiety. Fast forward to the third trimester and we were referred to the high-risk doctor due to IUGR. Our little girl just didn’t seem to be gaining weight like she should have been. I was scheduled to be induced early as my physicians were concerned about my placenta failing to provide baby with all she needed. When admitted to the hospital, I was a nervous wreck. I felt like my husband and I had been on such a long journey to get our little girl earthside happy, healthy, and strong.

I had so many questions and concerns throughout the entire laboring process. My nurse, Amber, went above and beyond to ensure that I was as comfortable and educated as I could be throughout the entire process. She thoroughly answered any questions, and if she did not know the answer, she would seek out someone who did. That alone comforted me in knowing that she was working to make sure the information she provided was accurate.

When it came time to push she never left my side. As soon as our little one was born, she was placed on my chest but there was no crying. A team immediately came and took her from me and began working on her in the corner. As a new Mom, all I could do was cry. I cried in fear for my daughter and her well-being. Amber remained by my side and kept me informed throughout the entire process. She reassured me that she was going to be okay and continued to encourage me as the placenta was delivered.

Amber may never fully know the impact that she had on me and my husband, but she provided care and encouragement in one of the scariest times of our lives. Although we remained in the hospital for several days after delivery and we were moved to a regular room out of her department, she came to check on us each shift she had while we were there! Her job description didn’t require she invest herself the way she did, but she displayed a true love for her job, her patients, and their needs.