I came to Mayo in Austin from a previous negative birth experience where I was not heard when I tried to advocate for myself during my birth experience. Several medical decisions were made for me without my consent or knowledge, and I was dismissed for being a first-time mom going through labor. I made the decision to commute an hour for every appointment and to give birth, hoping for an empowering experience. Lacey was my daytime nurse during the most intense part of my laboring experience. She made sure I was heard and was so caring and compassionate. She made it clear that she wanted to know about my previous experience so she could help make this labor a positive experience with an emphasis on a healthy baby and a beautiful experience for me as a mom. I was preparing to push as her shift was coming to an end. When she brought in the next nurse who would take over, she ensured that this new nurse was fully informed about my previous birth story, allowing me to continue having a positive and empowering experience. About half an hour after her shift was over, I started pushing. Between pushes, I looked up, and in walked Lacey, who proceeded to stay over an hour past her shift to be there to support me as I brought my daughter into the world. She encouraged me during pushing, captured beautiful moments of my labor, and helped care for me and the baby after she was born. She went above and beyond, and I have her to thank for playing such a monumental role in me having the most beautiful and empowering birth experience after previous moments of trauma in labor with my first child. I can’t imagine anyone more deserving of a DASIY Award.