I am a mother of seven and I have given birth in five different hospitals throughout three different states. So trust me when I say that this woman is a true diamond in the rough. I have been truly blessed by her service with my last two babies. Let me try to somehow explain my experiences with her.
With my last labor with my sixth baby, I was immediately welcomed by Rhonda. Little did I know that I was in the presence of an amazing nurse. I decided to get an epidural after a few bad experiences with them. When the person came in to give it to me, they said that my husband had to leave the room. I have been with my husband since I was fifteen years old. He is a rock for me and has always been very involved. This was not easy news to hear, but it was the rule. The nurse quickly came to our emotional rescue. She apologized to my husband and assured him that she would take care of me. She did not lie to us. She knew I was scared and literally held me the whole time during the procedure. She talked me through the entire thing encouraging me the whole way. As soon as it was done, she brought my husband back. About an hour later, my epidural wore off and I was feeling full contractions. She never left my side until it was fixed and I was comfortable again. Me being in pain was not an option for her. The rest of the labor, she did nothing but encourage and coach me. It was a great experience.
So naturally, as I came back two years later with my seventh baby, I asked about her. I found out that she was working the day I was laboring and would once again, be my nurse. I couldn't have been more thrilled. We went through all the same experiences as the last. She held me through another epidural, she encouraged me, and she never left my side for long. I always felt as if I was the only patient, which I wasn't. My husband told her that the only reason he could leave me with the epidural procedure is because he knew she was with me. That's huge! So I'll fast forward to delivery because this is where she shined most. Rhonda is standing next to me assisting one of my legs while pushing. She is, of course, encouraging me and coaching me along the way. At one point, I can see my baby's head starting to crown and I began to cry. I look over at Rhonda and she is crying with me. How many births has she helped and she can still feel as if you were the only one she has witnessed? I have never had a nurse so empathetic.
As I stayed at the hospital, I learned how much all of her patients and co-workers love her as well. Even to the point that one of the recovery nurses said that she is who she looks up to. My doctor has nothing but great things to say about her.
My daughter will be here in seven months delivering her first child and Rhonda made a point to meet her and tell her how she wants to be here for her too. Rhonda is exceptional and a true DAISY Nurse.