Without any notice my wife went into premature labor at 29 weeks. My wife was rushed up to St. Joseph from Olympia. Upon arriving, we both panicked and had no idea what was going on. Valerie was our nurse right up until my wife was taken in for an emergency C-section. I can say with complete assurance that she helped save the life of my son. She calmly explained everything that was going on and was able to keep my wife completely calm and relaxed. Her bedside manner was incredible! She was one of the most compassionate human beings with whom I have ever interacted. She epitomizes everything that you could possibly look for in a labor and delivery nurse.

If she had not been on duty that day, I'm terrified to think about what would have happened because our anxiety levels would have been unmanageable. Words cannot describe the special place she will have in our hearts for the rest of our lives. She is an incredible nurse and an even better person who personifies excellence, integrity, compassion, quality, team work and reverence. Even as an army offer, I have never before witnessed this level of excellence under stressful conditions.