We first encountered Liz’s warm, reassuring smile as we were moved to the Delivery Suite to have my waters broken. Liz had been drafted in from the Postnatal Ward to help clear the backlog of people waiting to be admitted to the Delivery Suite, but I am eternally grateful she was, as her naturally kind, compassionate and caring nature instantly helped me relax despite my anxiousness about giving birth and what was to come.

From the very beginning, Liz created an atmosphere that was so calm and safe, it felt like we’d popped round to a friend’s house for a cup of tea. She was clear that I was always in control – she was simply there to support me with whatever I needed. Liz took time to talk me through what to expect, providing detailed explanations before I was in advanced labour, empowering me with the information I needed to make informed decisions with confidence.

Liz's ability to blend evidence-based knowledge with genuine empathy was exceptional. She fascinated us with her insights into midwifery, research, and developments in best practice, and it was clear that her passion for high-quality, dignified care drives everything she does. During early labour, we were also dealing with the stress of a very unwell family member in hospital. Liz showed such empathy and compassion, helping us focus on the positives without dismissing what we were going through. She struck the perfect balance between being clinically brilliant and deeply human.

Somehow, Liz made the first 7 hours of my labour enjoyable – something I never expected to say! When her shift ended, I was genuinely sad to see her go. She had made me feel safe, relaxed, and genuinely cared for – and that’s no small thing for someone who was terrified of labour and extremely nervous before Liz instantly relaxed us.

A few days later, when complications meant we had to spend a week on the postnatal ward, we were overjoyed to see Liz again. She reintroduced herself with that same beaming smile, and I instantly felt a huge weight lift. Knowing she would be looking after us that evening gave my wife the peace of mind to finally go home and rest – she knew I was in truly safe hands. Over the next few days, we were lucky to have Liz care for us several more times.

Her ability to work seamlessly across disciplines and with colleagues at all levels was outstanding. She demonstrated fairness, inclusivity, and deep respect for others – whether patient or colleague – ensuring every voice was heard and every need addressed in the smoothest of fashions. Liz treated everyone as an individual, understanding and responding to our specific circumstances with remarkable grace.

Even when clearly stretched, Liz had a unique way of making every single patient feel like they were the only patient in her care. She constantly popped her head in to check on each patient, answer questions, explain what was coming next, and ask if the patient needed anything. She would also apologise for not checking in more, even though she was the only midwife who consistently and regularly did check in! Her proactive approach to chasing updates and communicating plans before we even had time to wonder what was happening made a huge difference and was deeply reassuring, too.

Every midwife we encountered throughout our journey – from MAC and ANDU during pregnancy, to the Delivery Suite and antenatal and postnatal wards – was exceptional. But Liz has something truly special that sets her apart. It’s not just her professionalism, knowledge, or efficiency – it’s the way she makes you feel safe, seen, valued, and genuinely cared for. Liz made an incredibly challenging experience, one that we will now always remember with warmth and gratitude.

Our only regret is not asking Liz if she would be happy to have a photo with our baby so that our baby can see the incredible lady we were lucky to have as our midwife when she is older, and we share tales of how wonderful Liz was. Liz doesn’t just deliver care – she delivers exceptional care, with heart, humour, and humanity.