I am nominating Caroline Miklovich for the DAISY Award because she went above and beyond in providing one-on-one, compassionate care during my labor and delivery. From the moment I entered the hospital, Caroline made me feel at home, creating an environment that was gentle, calm, and reassuring. She was not only kind but also an incredible advocate for me, supporting me every step of the way.
 
As someone who works in a NICU, I was understandably nervous about my baby’s outcome and how he or she would transition after delivery, especially considering how my labor was progressing. Being on the other side of patient care, I couldn’t help but worry about every possible scenario. Caroline’s approach eased many of those concerns. Her empathy and professionalism gave me the confidence I needed to stay calm and focused. She kept me informed, reassured me that everything would be okay, and made sure I understood each step of the process.
 
Despite being in labor for 46 hours, Caroline remained patient with me, especially during moments when I felt emotionally overwhelmed. She allowed me to have a voice in how I wanted my labor to progress, giving me the confidence to make decisions that were right for me. Her extensive knowledge and hands-on approach gave me peace of mind throughout the entire process.
 
During my labor, Caroline and her student spent the entire two days with us, preparing us for a smooth delivery. They were always there, suggesting ways I could get comfortable and advising me on how to get optimal rest, ensuring that I felt supported both physically and emotionally during such a long process. Her dedication to helping me through every stage was evident and made a huge difference in how I experienced my labor.
 
Caroline made the room feel comfortable, and I never felt bothered when she came in. In fact, I loved her presence. Her calm and warm demeanor created an atmosphere of safety and trust, making her visits feel like a reassuring part of my day rather than an interruption. I always felt supported and at ease, no matter what the moment required.
 
Caroline also made sure my husband felt heard and supported. She took the time to address his questions, concerns, and opinions with the utmost respect, ensuring he felt valid and involved in every decision. This attention to his needs made him feel like an important part of the process, which meant the world to us both.
 
When things shifted, and I needed to be in the OR, Caroline stayed by my side, offering constant reassurance. She kept us updated, telling us that our sweet surprise-gender baby was doing okay and that this was exactly what we needed to do. Her warmth, empathy, and gentle words were exactly what we needed during a very uncertain moment.
 
After my delivery, Caroline welcomed our flooding visitors with open arms, making sure they felt included and comfortable, despite the overwhelming circumstances. She also took the time to teach my husband the basics of newborn care right after delivery, empowering him to feel more confident as a new father.
 
Additionally, Caroline worked alongside a student and ensured I felt safe and comfortable with her involvement. This level of teamwork and trust is something I deeply appreciated. Though my delivery didn’t go as planned, Caroline made the experience beautiful, and we welcomed our precious baby girl with her unwavering support. 

Caroline will forever be a part of our birth story. Her exceptional care, her kindness, and her professionalism helped make this life-changing experience something I will cherish always. I will be forever grateful for her presence during such a vulnerable time in our lives. She truly deserves this honor.