Our daughter B was born 13 weeks early. To this day, when people ask me about our daughter, Michelle is always part of the story. Michelle was our daughter’s primary during our 11 weeks. Michelle brought a calming presence to such a scary situation. She answered questions and reassured us daily. She made it a point to get to know our families and us and spent time talking with us when we would be with B.

Michelle helped us with our new normal - a normal that we weren’t expecting. Michelle taught us all that we needed to know to care for our 1lb 15oz bundle of joy, encouraged us and calmed our nerves when we touched our translucent baby. She made sure that we were a part of bath time and care and made sure that she shared all information with us when we missed rounds with the doctors.

All of our first experiences with B, Michelle was there. She was the first person to help me nurse B weighing at 3lb 2oz the first time that she latched on. I sat in the chair, Michelle was right there, helping a new mommy to a micro-preemie. I sobbed-while she continued to reassure me. She helped us change B’s diaper for the first time, helped with the first bath, put clothes on her for the first time, she was there for it all. Because of her talents, Michelle found a murmur which eventually leads to an ASD diagnosis; something that our cardiologist was surprised was even found. During a NICU journey, there aren’t too many people that understand the world that you are living in, but she did. I would sob daily in Michelle’s arms; she not only comforted and took care of our baby, but she took care of me, my husband, and my family. I don’t think that I will ever be able to express the love and gratitude that I have for this beautiful woman. She is an amazing person who has forever impacted our lives; she is our angel on earth.