In 2022, I gave birth to our second daughter, who was delivered unexpectedly at home. She was born unresponsive and suffered severe brain damage through lack of oxygen. We got sent to the LRI where she underwent tests and scans that showed Grade 3 HIE. One of the first medical professionals we met was Jo. After a number of distressing conversations with consultants, Jo came to my husband and me to check our welfare. She would always give our baby some fuss too. Jo made sure we always had hope. She later arranged our first cuddle out of the incubator, taking so many pictures, knowing we would need these memories. Jo took time out of her day to sit and chat with us about her, about us, and our life outside of NICU. We felt just a little more relaxed when Jo was on shift. After receiving the news our baby was end of life, Jo came to us with open arms. We got moved to a family room, where we stayed for a few days. Jo visited us, and she knew we were feeling very stressed being in a small room not knowing how long we had left with our baby. 

Jo arranged for us to take her outside for a walk. She sourced a pram, clothes, and blankets and led the way around the hospital site. Our world felt 'normal,' pushing our baby in a pram and getting some fresh air. For a short time, we forgot the nightmare we were living. Jo even took us to the hospital restaurant, brought us coffee, and let us sit and have a relaxed drink with our baby in the pram with us. It meant everything! Jo gave us 30 minutes of normality! We later moved to hospice where later our daughter sadly passed away. Jo will always be such a special part of our journey.

Over the next year, we kept in touch with Jo. We returned to LRI for an appointment and met with her. She was thrilled with the news that we were expecting D's brother. Six months later, I was admitted for 3 weeks before our son was born. Jo visited me regularly. It was comforting to have a familiar face. She brought cards and gifts for the new baby. And to make our story even more special, our son was born on Jo's birthday. Jo went above and beyond for myself and my husband, and she showed our daughter so much love whilst in her care. She is a nurse we will never forget!