Kristin was able to be part of a family's beginning and end for their baby. Kristin attended the delivery of a 30 week baby born to a mother who fought so hard to stay pregnant as long as she could knowing that every day she stays pregnant only helps her baby. Unfortunately, every pregnancy and delivery is different. It became apparent that the baby had likely experienced an incident prior to delivery and that the baby would not survive. As you can imagine, this mother was devastated.

It took her many days to come to accept her reality; she would go from understanding and acceptance back to grief, confusion, and hope for a full recovery. Each step of the way Kristin was there, allowing this mother to go through each stage while providing the most compassionate and respectful care. I watched Kristin sit and listen to them, I watched her give space and silence; she made keepsakes and took many pictures that this family will cherish for a lifetime. But most of all, Kristin gave this family time…time with their precious baby; she did not push, she did not pressure, she gave them something that she knew they would never get back. It was a beautiful thing. Kristin came in extra to be there for this family on the night they planned to withdraw support. Kristin said she was there in the beginning and she wanted to see this baby through the end if she could. 

I think this is exactly what this family needed: someone they bonded with, felt comfortable with, and supported, someone who would make a horrible situation manageable. That baby passed away peacefully in his mother's arms. During this whole process Kristin provided some of the most compassionate care I have ever seen. I know both that baby and family felt her caring spirit, dedication, and love.

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