She was my nurse during my stay for the birth of my first child. As a nurse myself with over 10 years of experience, this was the first time I found myself on the other side of care—as a patient. The experience was both humbling and eye-opening, and she played a pivotal role in shaping it.

Though she wasn’t present for the actual delivery, she cared for me the day before I delivered and after my delivery, and the impact she made was profound. From the moment she stepped into my room, she made sure every one of my needs was anticipated and met with compassion, attentiveness, and professionalism. Her calm presence and gentle demeanor helped ease the emotional and physical intensity of the postpartum period.

What truly stood out were the small, thoughtful touches—she took the time to capture my daughter’s footprints and create keepsake crafts for us to take home and share with grandparents, bringing me a coffee the morning after I delivered, making a hot tea to mix meds in, etc. These gestures, while seemingly small, meant the world to me and my family. They were a reminder of the heart behind nursing—the kind of care that goes beyond clinical tasks and reaches into meaningful human connection.

Her care made me reflect on my own practice and inspired me to be more intentional, more present, and more thoughtful in the way I care for my patients. I am deeply grateful to her and will always remember the kindness she showed during such a significant moment in my life.