I was in labor with my second son after a previous c-section 18 months prior. I had been adamant about having a VBAC this time around if it was safe for me and the baby. In the week leading up to my due date, I had been told that the baby was 8lb 15oz! This made a potential VBAC riskier due to the baby’s size. When I went into labor at 40w1d I was given the choice at the hospital to have a C-section or VBAC. I was extremely nervous and opted for a C-section. By chance, the OR was busy all night and the next morning, I was still waiting to get into the OR when Elaine started her shift. She immediately came in and told me my labor was progressing perfectly and that she could help me get the VBAC I wanted so badly. Even though I was terrified, I for some reason felt I could trust her to shepherd me through labor and delivery. ​

At that point, my husband and I agreed I’d continue to let my body labor and called off the C-section. Throughout the day, she kept me comfortable, regularly repositioned me to encourage the baby to move into my pelvis, and always had words of encouragement. When I was close to fully dilated, she rubbed and massaged my back when the pain became excruciating. When it finally came time to push, she transformed from a calm presence into the most amazing, vocal cheerleader. With her help, I pushed my son out in 10 minutes at my first vaginal birth. I truly believe that it was fate that she was my nurse that day. She gave me everything I hoped my labor would be, peaceful, supportive, and positive. She asked me how I wanted to go about every step, and I felt heard throughout the whole process. I can’t thank Elaine enough for giving me the birth that I always envisioned despite my fear, not to mention bragging rights for one of the fastest first-time births! Thank you, Elaine! 

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