Rebecca was not one of our core nurses; she only cared for my son a few times, but the impact she had on our family has been tremendous. For any family that has had their child in the NICU, you will understand the stress and feeling of hopelessness. Rebecca recognizes that and actively looks for ways to assuage our fears. I called at 7:30 in the morning for an update, and these were her words: "Good morning, my name's Rebecca, and I am taking care of your little one today. I know you have been in the NICU for some time, but this is the first time I am meeting your baby. This is how he did overnight, and this is our plan for the day. Do you have any questions or concerns? I look forward to meeting you when you come to visit."

Within 30 minutes of her shift starting, she was already on top of my child's case. I was a little frustrated that we didn't get one of our core nurses, but I felt reassured just by speaking to Rebecca in the morning. When I came to visit, she was singing to my little boy. In the middle of a busy day, she made time to sing to him because he was not settling well. That is when I was fully put at ease - the care she provided went beyond his medical needs, but she cared for him as a whole person. She sat with my husband and me, hearing our concerns and frustrations, and wiped away my tears. She said, "We are on the same team, whether or not it is the outcome we want, we will get through this." At first, I was taken aback, but I now appreciate that she didn't provide us with false reassurance like other people on the NICU team; she made promises she could keep —promises she would stand by us, fight for our son, and keep us informed.

We were waiting for a family meeting, but the whole week, we were given various excuses as to why now was not a good time. However, Rebecca saw that our family needed it. We needed updates, answers, and a plan. She advocated for us, and we secured the meeting we needed. By the end of the week, my son's health had a clearer plan. I know there were many other people involved in making that happen, but Rebecca spearheaded it. She is exactly what you want in a nurse- she is brilliant, beyond competent, patient, professional, a team player, and involves families in every aspect of care. The NICU is incredibly busy, but she never lets you feel like you're adding too much to her plate, and that's such a gift! When she spends time with you and your child, you are the most important thing in the world to her in that moment. I know I speak on behalf of every family that has had the joy of having Rebecca as their nurse; she is incredible in every respect. Her passion for this role and love for her patients shine through in all that she does.