I went into work to give the best patient care I could; however, the tables were turned and instead, I received the most remarkable care. I went in for my typical 12 hour night shift on 5C-Peds Cardiac Step-down unit [at Blair E. Batson]. After about 1/2 the shift I realized I was not feeling very good and a co-worker decided to take my blood pressure. It was through the roof and off to OB receiving I went. I was admitted, and informed of how serious my condition was. I was only 27 weeks pregnant. I was terrified. I think sometimes it's much worse when you are a healthcare professional and know what all the medical terminology they use actually means. I heard things like "conservative management", "micro-preemie", "IUGR" and "Pre-E/HELP Syndrome". I was scared to death.

The morning I got up to L&D Amanda was my nurse. She talked to me for hours, held my hand, prayed for me and gave me some peace of mind. She started Mag on me and explained that I would not be able to get up for bathroom privileges. I refused a Foley. Later in the day I was so weak I could barely get up and down on a bedpan. We discussed the Foley again and I agreed. She was so gentle, compassionate, and understanding. Because of her (and a little medication), I made it through it.

A day passed and my condition worsened. Conservative management was no longer an option. They told me my body could no longer support my child and they would be taking me to do a C-section the next morning. It was a long night to say the least. At 0655, Amanda walked into my room. Thank Goodness!! She hugged me, reassured me, and made me feel much better. I cannot even begin to describe in words how much compassion Amanda has in her heart. It is absolutely indescribable. That day we went to surgery and she was right there, rubbing my hair, praying with me, and hugging me. I made it through and saw my tiny baby. I was so scared. They immediately took him away and it hurt my heart to watch. I went right back to L&D for a few more days of Mag therapy and Amanda was right there rooting me on.

I was in such a depression I didn't want to get out of bed, but Amanda arranged for my Mag to be turned off for two hours for me to go see my baby. She cheered me on as I stood up for the first time in days. She brushed my hair and prepared me for what I was about to see. She went with me herself and held my hand.

I have written this DAISY nomination several times and can't seem to get it quite right. I want her to receive this award SO bad because there's nobody more deserving than she. I will never forget my experience with her. I am so thankful for that woman!! She is the most remarkable, compassionate, loving, unselfish, hardworking, patient, and kind woman I was so blessed to meet.