I gave birth to a happy and healthy baby girl. This was my first pregnancy and first child. While I had a birth plan, none of it had occurred the way I expected, which was okay; they don't often do!

I was initially scheduled for an induction, but, despite every intervention possible, I was not dilating properly. After nearly 40 hours of labor, a foley balloon, induced water breakage, and two epidurals (neither of which lasted to the actual birth), I was told that I may have to have a C-section. I was terrified. It was the one thing I had planned against, and despite everything, it seemed more like the only option. However, thanks to one incredible nurse, I was able to have the birth experience I needed and wanted.

Joann came and started the shift prepared, already prepping for the birth and ready for whatever the night may bring. Seeing that I was not yet fully dilated and suffering from the failing epidural, she immediately began trying other methods to relieve my pain and help me dilate. She consulted with specialists, brought in the anesthesiologist, collaborated with every doctor and nurse possible, and even counseled my family on how to help me move and take my mind off the pain. She closely monitored my vitals and those of my baby, always keeping one eye on the screens.

I felt the most safe with her than I had at any other point in my stay. When the news came that I may have to undergo an operation, I panicked and began to sob. She counseled me through my worst fears about the C-section and assured me that if it had to come to pass, I would be okay. But she was still determined to ensure that I had the birth experience I wanted. She listened to me, allowed me to try the positions I thought I needed, and worked hard to buy me the time to do so. Within an hour, I had nearly dilated from 8 to nearly 10 centimeters, but had just a hair left to go.

Still, I felt defeated, facing the possibility of needing a C-section after all those hours of labor, position changes, and now being just 9.75 centimeters dilated, I felt it was all for nothing. But, through her help, the time she found for me, her kind and encouraging words, and her continuous effort, she did what seemed impossible at the time and helped me reach full dilation. She helped move my cervix as I pushed against her. Before I knew it, I was 10 centimeters dilated, and my dear daughter was crowning!

 Joann was ready, as she knew it was time to push and that my doctor could not be there in time. She sat with me through the whole birth, coaching me on pushing and offering kind words, knowing that I felt the pain of it all. At 2:34 AM that night, Joann delivered my baby into the world. I couldn't have hoped for anyone better. Even after, Joann remained on top of all my and my baby's care needs.

Her gentleness in those moments, caring for my baby, talking to me as I readjusted to the environment, helping me to the bathroom, teaching me how to care for myself and the baby, and personally pushing me and holding my belongings as we moved to the mother and baby ward.  I will never forget that. By the end of the night, I almost couldn't say goodbye to her. Joann moved mountains for me.

She listened to me and worked for me so that my baby and I could be safe, healthy, and happy. No one works harder than Joann.