My husband and I just had our newest bundle of joy 13 days before we received a call that our son's bilirubin level was way too elevated, and although somewhat uncommon for his age, he still needed to be admitted into the NICU immediately. As any new parent can imagine, that type of phone call is frightening. The unknowns can consume you. We knew his bilirubin level was higher than we would have liked, but we certainly didn't imagine having to admit our 13-day-old newborn.

As we feared leaving our other 2 sons in such a hurry, we all pulled together and packed a small bag and headed where we needed to be. The night nurse was a doll. And our 7 am nurse has been a true blessing and a gem all rolled into one. We could immediately feel her love for all babies and see her caring heart. Vanessa took such thorough care of our baby that we instantly knew we were all in the best of hands. Vanessa listened to any and all of our concerns, she answered all of our questions so diligently, and on the occasion that she didn't have the answer, she went above and beyond to find out the answer to any question. Her compassion and reassurance in our baby’s care are incomparable to anyone else's. She sure made this Mommy's heart feel every ounce of love she pours into her job, and I could rest as best as possible knowing our son was in the best of hands.

We could feel her kindness and warmth, and those qualities helped us make it through the long hours. Her attentiveness and availability were also so reassuring. If for a minute too long, she had to be with a different patient, she made sure we were looked upon by another fabulous nurse and that we stayed feeling like we were all working cohesively for the betterment of our little man. I am sad to see her go, but I am so thankful for nurses like Vanessa. I know the next little baby will be shown the exact type of care and feel so safe and loved.