My husband and I arrived at McKay-Dee hospital for a scheduled induction of our third baby and met our nurse, Amanda. Right from the get-go, Amanda was very personable and made me and my husband very comfortable. She sat next to me at eye level and asked me questions trying to understand any concerns I had and what my birth plan was. I was concerned about having an induction since I had never had one before. She had a very motherly presence and nursing came so natural to her. She was helpful in providing suggestions for pain management and repeatedly told me that it's my body and I am still in control of what was going on. I felt empowered that I could get through the induction without any pain medication because she gave me encouragement and comfort through every step of the way.

A few hours into the labor, my blood pressure began to increase. It was determined that I had pre-eclampsia. I was emotionally distraught and Amanda explained everything to me in way that I could understand. She helped reassure me that everything was going to be okay. She really took the extra time to ensure I was taken care of!

Once it came time to deliver the baby, Amanada helped me try different positions for pushing and even shared positive affirmations. She suggested I use noise to let out what I was feeling and I definitely did! She encouraged me to play music if I felt like it and did her best to make sure I could move around. With Amanda's help, I was able to have a labor and delivery that I wanted, even though it seemed impossible. Once our baby was born, my blood pressure plummeted and I lost a lot of blood. Amanda took quick action and did everything she could to help me. I felt like she never left my side. Amanda was an angel on earth who helped save my life! I couldn't have asked for a better nurse in the entire world to help care for me that day.

Thank you, Amanda, for everything you did to help me overcome the struggles I went through! I will never forget you!