I’m a first-time mom who went in for induction at 39 weeks pregnant. As first-time moms, we were warned to get comfortable when we were called in for induction because it can take hours and hours before it’s baby time. I expected to have the baby hours from this point, but progressed much quicker than we all expected. By the time the anesthesiologist placed the epidural, I was having contractions about a minute apart. I remember looking into Tara’s eyes and telling her how scared I was - afraid I wouldn’t be able to sit still for him to place it through the contractions. She was so compassionate and stood in front of me telling me to squeeze her hands through it and I did.

Tara guided me through how to push and was such a great coach during what was scary and unexpected territory for a first-time mom. She helped me get started with pushing while we waited for the doctor to come in because I just couldn’t wait. We started the induction process around 9:45 pm and then our sweet baby girl was born at 2:06 am after only about a half hour of pushing. The entire process from the start of induction through the birth took only 4 hours when I honestly didn’t think I’d even give birth during Tara’s shift!

After everything was over and my husband and I were able to really converse about our experience the next day, I told him that I don’t think I could have done it without Tara. She’s a skilled nurse not only clinically, but emotionally as well. Her bedside manner is something you don’t always find anymore in a healthcare system that is tired and overworked. She made me feel safe and supported at a time when new moms feel scared and unsure. I am so incredibly grateful that she was our nurse and helped us welcome our first sweet baby into the world!