Rachel's care completely demonstrates excellence through their clinical expertise and extraordinary compassionate care. The nurse first cared for me when I came into triage thinking I was in preterm labor with my daughter, E, after receiving the devastating news that it was only a matter of time before we'd lose her. This nurse hugged me and made sure I was emotionally cared for immediately.

During every clinical test and monitoring, she completely explained what she was doing and why. She immediately found my daughter's heartbeat, so we knew she was still with us. The majority of this visit was Rachel taking the time to support me emotionally and allowing me the time and space, that I know can be so limited for nurses, to express how difficult a time this was for me. I'm so grateful for that.

At 30 weeks, we learned at a doctor's appointment that our daughter had passed. My induction had begun and when Rachel came on shift, I was about 3cm dilated. Again, this nurse took the time for me to express how I was feeling and fully explained what she was doing clinically at every moment. As I was pushing, I had so many doubts about my own capability and was afraid of the moment I would say goodbye to my daughter. This nurse was there cheering me on and encouraging me as I was pushing, counting down to 10, and guiding me through the minutes until I'd see my daughter.

Once my daughter was delivered, she was placed on my chest, and I was given time to look at my sweet girl and it amazed me the sweet and compassionate encouragement the nurse said to me. Every time the nurse looked at and cared for my daughter, I was amazed at the grace and care she showed to her and as a mother, I knew how safe she'd be with her when she took her for footprints and measurements. When this nurse brought E back from measurements, she not only was swaddled but the nurse had made a little nest with blankets, and I can't even express how touching that was to me. Rachel made sure our sweet baby was comfortable, even though she was gone. She explained the process of taking our daughter to the morgue and made sure we were completely informed and ensured we had all the time we wanted with her. She gave us space to mourn her loss. And I knew E was in safe hands as she was taken downstairs after we said goodbye.

As a mother, I can't even articulate the attention to detail that Rachel gave to my clinical and emotional care. But the care and love she showed my daughter was even beyond. We will hold the memories with had with E dearly forever and the memories were greatly impacted by this nurse.

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