I was being induced, and I was so scared since I had never experienced anything like this before. This was our first baby, and Bernadette was one of my nurses. Her compassion is like no other. She was not only made to be a nurse, but she was made to be in labor and delivery.

Her voice and her presence made the experience so smooth and definitely something I will remember for the rest of my life. From start to finish of my delivery, I don’t know if I would have been able to get through it the way we did if it weren’t for her. She talked me through things about what was happening and what the next steps were, and always made sure I was okay.

My delivery was progressing fast and hard, and at one point, I didn’t think I could do it. Something about her voice comforted me, and she would tell me to breathe through my contractions, and hearing her helped me get through them. Once, I was supposed to push. There was a time I heard my baby’s heart rate was dropping, and it was game time. I was so tired, and it hurt so bad that she came to my side and told me we need to get this baby out, and that I can do this.

She coached me through it, and push after push, he was out. His cord was wrapped around his neck three times, and they knew I couldn’t wait anymore. Without her, I don’t think I could have gotten through it the way I did.

Bernadette, you deserve so much. We love and respect you, and you will forever have this memory imprinted because you are so amazing. Thank you for being you, and I am so thankful you were on that night!