In April 2024 my wife and I received some of the worst and most unexpected news, our baby, who was at 36 weeks, had died; her heart was no longer beating. We were immediately thrown into a world of intense grief but also the realization that my wife had to go through labor and subsequent recovery, but without the gift of our Baby Girl being alive. But we were blessed with an amazing care team of doctors and nurses who provided tremendous support. While each one was incredible, one nurse stood out: Ashley Field.

Ashley was our day nurse for 2 days and was with us when our Baby Girl was born. Ashley's calm demeanor provided us with a comforting atmosphere. She constantly reassured us that while what we were going through was very difficult, we would get through it and that she was there on the journey with us.

My wife's labor went from nothing to full labor very quickly, and our daughter was born before the doctor was even in the room. Ashley stayed composed through it all and, even though she was the only one in the room, managed to help deliver our baby, make notes on the computer, and comfort us all at the same time. How she did that, I will never know.

After the stillbirth of our daughter, Ashley did everything possible to provide my wife with the best care and comforted both of us. She recognized our anguish and encouraged us to hold our baby and have some time as a family. She seemed to know when we just needed some time alone and when we needed someone else for support. Her frequent words of comfort and encouragement helped to give us strength at a time when we felt numb.

I can only imagine how hard it was for Ashley to help us through all of this, having to be part of the worst day of our lives will, I'm sure, weigh heavily on her heart. Yet, we never saw that pain; she exhibited strength and calmness, representing that good and happiness still existed at a time when we were experiencing our deepest grief. She always came into the room with a reassuring smile and would leave with comforting words.

When the time came for our baby to be handed over to the funeral home, Ashley agreed to carry her down to them so that we did not have to do it. She cradled her in her arms with care and love, never acting differently, knowing she was dead, but as if she were carrying a sleeping baby. Ashley took on this heavy responsibility without reserve and with a calming presence.

Once the funeral home was gone, Ashley walked us out of the hospital, continuing to give us words of encouragement. As we got into our vehicle, Ashley reminded us that even though we were leaving, she and the rest of the team were still there for us, and we were not alone as we continued that journey.

Ashley was amazing, and we cannot imagine going through all of that without her. Her attitude, actions, and care went beyond just taking care of my wife and our baby. She gave us strength when we felt powerless, soothed our anxieties with her calming presence, and inspired hope that our precious baby would forever be remembered.