I had a traumatic birth at KU earlier this year. After discharge, I ended up back at KU with preeclampsia. I was placed on Heart Center 5, and my nurse for two days was unforgettable.

Considering I was truly an "OB" patient, I was not part of their normal patient population. I came to that floor with my pain still not controlled from my C-section. Nurse Matias listened to me, and we worked together to advocate for better pain management. Due to my bilateral third spacing in my legs, my mobility was very limited. Getting my pain under control was vital to my healing process.

Matias also knew how important breastfeeding my baby was to me. It was the only thing that made me feel good through this difficult time being away from her. He got me a fridge, breast pump, and all the accessories I needed to pump. I was able to establish my milk supply because he came into my room every two hours to encourage me to pump. He is the perfect blend of nurturing and persistent. He was gentle when I needed him to be and stern when I needed the extra push or reminder to rest. He also lit up with joy when my daughter came to visit.

As a newly graduated nurse myself, I learned so much from Matias. I learned how I want to advocate for my patients and how I want my own bedside manner to be. I'm sure he is excellent with his patient population, but in my humble opinion, he missed his calling in OB. He made me feel heard, seen, respected, and validated. He was truly the start of my emotional and physical healing.

My daughter doesn't know it now, but she owes Matias a great thanks for saving her Mommy's life. She is now 7months old and is rolling over, talking, and full of joy and laughter.

I wish I could thank Matias again in person, but our family has since moved to Florida, where I am currently a medical-surgical nurse and will be on shift when he receives his award. I will be working hard to treat my patients the way Matias treated me. As a whole person who deserves the best care possible.

May you be blessed today and always!