May 11, 2011

In October 2008, my boyfriend and I found out we were going to be having a baby. I had just relocated to Des Moines to start a new job, so it would be a month before my insurance would go into effect. Wanting to get things rolling and be on the safe side, I went to Broadlawns Medical Center for my very first appointment.

I explained to the nurse that it had been 14 years since I had been pregnant. I was completely honest, telling her that I was nine years clean and I had always wanted a chance to do it “right” as my previous pregnancy I had used drugs. With that being said, I explained that being pregnant for me now was like being pregnant for the very first time.

The nurse’s name was Teresa Stevens. She was very patient and answered every little question I had. By the time my next appointment was due I could have been seen anywhere in Des Moines because my insurance was in effect. Every time I went for my check- up, I requested Theresa and every time I had lots of questions.  As the time drew near to plan my cesarean section, my boyfriend and I asked If Teresa could be in the delivery room. On a June day in 2009, our precious boy was born.

Let me tell you, the experience was so special and we will never forget those four days we spent in the hospital. I knew the nurses by name. They were just so kind – everyone in the birthing unit. Sure, I didn’t have a flat screen TV, but I knew what my doctors’ names were as well as my nurses’ and Teresa came and checked on us every day. The only way I can best describe it was above and beyond.

Sadly, in September, our son passed away. Three days after he died, I called a nurse and just told her to do me a favor and pass the news on to Teresa, the birthing unit and pediatric clinic because I just couldn’t.

Teresa called me back right away. I never answered. The very first people to arrive at the funeral were Teresa and Dr. Larry Lindell, the head of Broadlawns’ ob/gyn department. We were so honored that they would come and spend that special day with us to say goodbye to our lil’ guy. That says something about a hospital when the nurse and doctor show up at your son’s funeral.

I will never forget the feeling I had that day when I saw Teresa and Dr. Lindelll at the funeral. From the very first appointment I went to, Teresa showed a kindness and non-judgmental kind of compassion that I needed. I received several cards from different nurses at Broadlawns, and about  a month ago we received a card from Teresa saying that the room in the birthing unit was going to be dedicated in honor of our baby. WOW!!! There is a wonderful plaque outside the door.

I want you to know that because of Teresa, from the very first appointment making me feel more than just a number, your team always going the extra mile. As I’m writing this, I am crying because little did any of us know the ending. I am so thankful for the birthing unit, the doctors, nurses — and most of all “My Nurse.