“In January 2024, I gave birth to my son at the Smiths Falls Hospital, and I can’t thank the nurses, doctors, and support staff enough for the exceptional care that they provided.
From the moment we arrived, they went above and beyond to make sure that both my baby and I were supported, safe, and comfortable.
On my son’s due date- a day filled with relentless freezing rain—I thought I had gone into labour. My husband and I rushed to the hospital, filled with nerves and excitement. We were warmly greeted by nurse Lauren and nurse Debbie, who quickly assessed me and contacted my doctor, Dr. Kerner. Since I wasn’t in active labour yet, they gave me the option to stay or return home, which I really appreciated.
The nurses asked me to come back the next morning to reassess, and it turned out the pain I was feeling were real contractions! I could hardly believe it! Nurse Melanie took care of me that day, and once again, I was given the choice to stay or rest at home. We chose to return home, but just a few hours later, my contractions intensified and we headed back to the hospital.
Nurse Lauren and nurse Debbie were there again to welcome us, and though I was struggling, their reassuring smiles told me the moment was near (they were definitely excited to welcome a new baby to the world). They stayed with me throughout the night, caring for me in one of the most vulnerable states I’ve ever been in. Even when I couldn’t speak through the pain, they instinctively knew how to help. Around 3 a.m., the anesthesiologist arrived (bless him!), to give me my epidural and once the pain eased, I was finally able to rest.
A few hours later, Dr. Kerner walked in with a smile and said, “It’s time to have your baby.” With the support of her and the amazing nurses, I felt safe, seen, and empowered throughout the entire process. Their patience and encouragement turned what could have been a scary experience into something truly incredible- so much so that I would honestly go through it 100 more times with them by my side.
After delivery, the nurses gave us the space we needed to heal and adjust to our new roles. Nurse Melanie returned to care for me and taught me how to breastfeed, offering gentle guidance and reassurance that made me feel right at home.
The care I received from Dr. Kerner, Nurse Lauren, Nurse Debbie, and Nurse Melanie was truly outstanding. These individuals are angels in scrubs- compassionate, knowledgeable, and absolutely meant for this work. Their dedication left a lasting impression on my family, and I will always be grateful.
I’m genuinely looking forward to giving birth at the Smiths Falls Hospital again in the future.”
-A Grateful Mother