I was determined to follow my birth plan when I arrived at Rush. I was assured and felt comfortable and supported in this quest by all of the staff, including the doctors, but as time ticked away after being admitted for high blood pressure and risk of preeclampsia, most of the action items on my list, one by one, became no longer feasible. Doctors highly suggested various induction methods that I was against. I weighed my safety and health and my baby’s safety and health and started to give in. I became more and more distressed as I was advised to have a C-section. My nurse overheard the conversations I was having with my doctors as my progression to full dilation slowed. After the last and final conversation of the severity and preparation for moving to a C-section, my nurse had a private conversation with my partner and I suggesting Lotus positioning to help with my baby to be born vaginally. I pushed through pain and dedicated 15 minutes to the pose to jump 3 centimeters and then again for another round after being checked to the full 10 needed. It helped me feel empowered, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the care and attention to my needs. I think as a mom, sometimes what we want for our bodies and lives comes second to the baby. Vanessa helped me feel like a human and that my life is just as important. I will remember her and appreciate her for this for the rest of my life. This was the kind of care I was looking for. Thank you!

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Vanessa was absolutely wonderful!! She was my daytime nurse in labor and delivery. I was having a bit of a hard time with the epidural, and she calmed me down, held my hand, and helped me wipe my tears. It was traumatic for me, and she helped me a lot. Her bedside manner is also phenomenal. I was so lucky to have her!