I don’t even really know where to start. Labor was a pretty crazy event, given that it started with me being transported in a helicopter. After that, all my expectations kind of went out the window. When I first got to West Chester, I was assigned a specific nurse. I was in the beginning stages of labor, and I couldn’t get past 1 CM. I was getting poked and prodded at a lot, and although I went in wanting an all-natural birth, I just couldn’t take the pain. I ended up getting an epidural. I was getting a needle in my back, and I wasn’t sure what to expect, which made my anxiety rise to a ridiculous high because I didn’t know what was going on.

I ended up getting it placed, and I was able to get some rest. At 7 in the morning, a literal angel came into my room. Stacy-Ann immediately caught my attention even while I was half asleep. Her demeanor, the softness in her voice, and everything else were just so calming. She introduced herself, took some vitals, and jumped right in without being pushy or mean. She included my partner in almost everything to make sure I was more than okay. My epidural failed multiple times, and she was on it. She called the anesthesiologist; she was there coaching me on breathing; she was just there for me the entire time. I ended up giving birth while she was still on shift, and I thank God because I wouldn’t have been able to do it without her. I couldn’t have.

The baby descended into the birth canal so fast, it was time to push in like no time. Between being on the computer and making sure the doctors had what they needed, she still made time somehow to stay by my side and coach me, as well as continue to give me such positive affirmations. At one point, I just laid back after pushing and screamed that I couldn’t do it. She came right up to me and told me we’re going to do this…and I did, with her right there beside me. Immediately after, I was told the baby had to go to the NICU. All I could do was cry in disappointment, knowing I did all this work and I couldn’t even spend time with my new love. Again, my angel was right in my ear, giving me amazing affirmations and reassurance.

Once it was time to get moved to maternity and I found out she wasn’t coming, I could’ve cried. Besides giving birth to my love, Stacy-Ann Fairweather's encounter with me was one of the best parts. Her demeanor, her bedside manner, her professionalism, everything was just amazing. She made me more than comfortable, especially in such a vulnerable state. She explained everything that was happening and why. Even after I gave birth, she helped me walk and use the bathroom, and she even wiped me down. WCM has one of the best people on this earth working in their labor and delivery. Every patient that gets her as a nurse is beyond so blessed. My birth experience was so hard, but it was amazing, and I would do it again and again as long as she could be there. She needs to be recognized for how amazing she is at her job and as a person.