My 5-month-old daughter was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms 2 months ago (a severe form of epilepsy), and we’ve spent almost as much time in the hospital as out since then.

Maxine was one of my first night nurses here, and immediately when I met her, I just felt her warm heart. She brought instant calm into our room and situation. We had been told we would have to start ACTH injections on our daughter (intramuscular), and both my husband and I were intimidated and dreading it. Maxine was incredibly thorough and attentive in training me, allowed me to ask as many questions as needed, and was present with me when I gave my very first injection to my daughter. She gave me the greatest pep talk and made me believe I could do it. After I gave the injection, I immediately burst into tears as it was a very emotional experience, and she gave me a hug and reassured me it was all for my daughter’s good. I will truly never forget that moment.

Since the beginning, I’ve had Maxine as my night nurse quite a few times, and it always feels like the warmth of my mom entering our room when she arrives - which is about the highest compliment I can pay someone. And I’m very grateful for that presence as my lovely mother (also a nurse) lives long distance and hasn’t been able to be here as much as either of us would like throughout this difficult time.

Maxine has been kind, genuine, warm, very caring, and brings a sense of humor that helps lighten things a bit. She always checks in on me to make sure I am taking care of myself as well, and it’s very clear she cares very much and very well for my daughter.

The experience of getting this diagnosis has been horrible, but people like Maxine make me believe I can handle it. And make it much less traumatic than it could be.