It’s no exaggeration to say that I truly feel lucky to be alive today after delivering my son A. A’s debut was initially very smooth with a fabulous induction experience and an effective epidural that allowed me to nearly “laugh him out” after only a few pushes – essentially a dream delivery. That dream quickly turned into a nightmare as I began to have a massive postpartum hemorrhage. Nikki and the doctor were both extremely vigilant in my postpartum care, given my history of a postpartum hemorrhage with my first son, and I believe it was this attention to detail that helped me survive the ordeal. As things started to turn downhill, Nikki never left my side and ensured I got the care I needed as swiftly as I needed it. As the hemorrhage became progressively worse, Nikki acted fast and efficiently to ensure all hands were on deck. She offered so much comfort and support, especially to my husband, who had to watch this entire ordeal unfold with no ability to help. Thanks to Nikki’s calm demeanor and professionalism, I had no idea how bad it was until the ordeal was behind us. She was on top of every intervention she could offer, made sure my husband was informed of my status, and delegated someone to help rub my arm due to the immense pain of the cold PRBCs being squeezed in through my PIVs. I will never forget the ashen-grey reflection of myself on the ceiling, strapped to the OR table crucifixion style, getting worked on from every angle by an amazing team of surgeons, CRNAs, and nurses. It was such an unreal, out-of-body experience to watch yourself in such a vulnerable position and not know what the outcome would be. I distinctly remember laying on that table and the doctor looked me in the eye and told me; "I have been in this position, we will get you through this," and I never doubted it for a moment. As a last resort, a hysterectomy was discussed, but they were able to get the bleeding under control.  I cannot emphasize enough the swift actions of the team not only saved my uterus but saved my life and allowed me to rebound back to being a mama to my boys! As a NICU nurse who works alongside these individuals, I have such a new appreciation and trust for them. I cannot speak highly enough of Nikki and my L&D team. 

Thanks to this team, I am alive today, my parents still have their daughter, my husband still has his wife, and my sons still have their mom. 

I am eternally grateful for her and this new extension of my WakeMed family.