My water broke prematurely with my first baby at 25 weeks. I was admitted to Northside Cherokee Labor and Delivery for six weeks prior to having a cesarean section. During my six-week admission, Mary took care of me every weekend. She became a true source of comfort and always cared for me with compassion and kindness. She always took the time to talk with me and get to know not only me, but my family as well. She always made me feel heard and seen.

Mary ensured that nothing was overlooked or missed in my care, and she consistently went above and beyond to make sure I felt comfortable and supported. Her cheerful and positive presence brightened even the hardest days. When I was admitted, we knew our baby would be going to NICU. Mary made sure to set up a consultation with the NICU team so my husband and I were able to talk to them to know what to expect and to ask questions. She also made sure we had a tour of the NICU so when the time came for our baby girl to be admitted, we would feel more comfortable. She would also use her lunch breaks to wheel her postpartum patients up to the NICU, where their baby was admitted for them to see and spend time with their baby. I wish I could put into words all of the selfless and caring things she would do and how much they meant to me. You can tell that she loves what she does for work and that she really cares about and prioritizes her patients.

Mary made a meaningful and lasting impact on me and my experience, turning a very difficult time into one where I always felt cared for, heard, valued, and respected. I know she has been nominated for the DAISY Award many times, and that is for good reason. I am also a nurse at Northside Cherokee, so it was very different being on the other side as a patient. But, because I am also an employee here, I know Northside’s standards and expectations, and I believe Mary exceeded those expectations. I will always be grateful for the care and love she gave my family and me.