We dreaded the first night leaving our son, in the NICU. Seeing him hooked up to an IV and CPAP is a jarring experience, and at the time, it seemed cruel and selfish for us to leave his side to get some rest. Who could possibly care for and love our son while we were away? At that moment, we met Sarah. After spending a few minutes with her and witnessing her speak gently to our son as she performed his care, she turned to us and said, "Don't worry, him and I will snuggle tonight. You guys get some rest." We were overcome by instant relief, calm, and confidence in Sarah and the NICU team.
It was that specific term, snuggle, that spoke to who Sarah is. She didn't say that she was going to "hold" him if he cried. She didn't say that she would simply take good care of him. Sarah said that she was going to snuggle him. Wrapped up in that single word was clear love for him and all babies in her care and peace for us knowing our son wasn't just being cared for, he was being loved.
After asking Sarah to care for our son whenever she worked, we had the opportunity to see her love all babies the same way she loved our baby. The beginning of his life story can only be told in the context of the love and care he received from Sarah, and we're thrilled that so many babies' stories begin with her in a supporting role. Sarah's compassionate heart is so deserving of recognition.