No one should have to go home without their baby in their arms. It truly is the worst feeling to leave the hospital empty-handed. However, for NICU parents this is often their daily reality.

I was induced at 35 weeks due to preeclampsia. Being a Labor and Delivery nurse myself I tried to prepare my husband for what it would be like, what he would see, in preparation for knowing she would go. However, nothing prepares a parent, especially one who doesn’t have the experience to see their baby hooked up to tubes and lines. Because I had a C-section my husband had to go to the NICU alone. He was scared, and every beep and alarm terrified him. And that’s when we met Kim. Kim was in charge that night and walked my husband through every line, tube, machine, and alarm. She answered every question and gave him the support he needed while I was recovering. Kim was kind, gentle, and a true advocate for our baby girl.

When I finally got to go to the NICU myself Kim made sure I was updated and cared for there as well. She often chose to care for my daughter on nights she wasn’t in charge. Those nights she made sure to take the time to check in with us, answer questions, and get to know us as parents of her patient, but also as people. Even on nights when Kim wasn’t working with our daughter she would often come and check on us.

The care and love Kim showed us during this time truly made every day bearable. Without Kim, our time in the NICU wouldn’t have been the same. She’s one of the best advocates and truly goes above and beyond for her patients. We were lucky to have her.

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