Devashree’s Story:
Like other first-time parents, I was very excited and a little nervous about the impending arrival of my baby. Fortunately, I was in good hands. From the moment I stepped into the Maternal Newborn Unit at North York General, I had an extraordinarily positive experience.
I felt “wrapped in care” by the team at the hospital. Throughout my long delivery, the nurses and doctors kept me well informed of what was happening and remained encouraging and reassuring – which I found very motivating.
After 30 long hours, my husband and I finally welcomed our daughter Kiara. I can’t describe how much joy I felt. Holding my daughter against my skin was a particularly memorable moment.
Due to some difficulties during Kiara’s birth, I was not able to get out of bed for several hours. I was extremely nervous that this may have meant I couldn’t be close to her, but thankfully my nurse wheeled a bassinet over to the bed and positioned it above my lap, enabling me to cuddle and feed Kiara easily.
Even when I was resting, a nurse made sure Kiara was close to my bed, so I could check on her regularly. I think it was also comforting for my daughter to know I was right beside her and to hear my voice. When I was sleeping, my husband watched over Kiara and he loved seeing her stretch out in her cute little pink onesie.
As a new parent, I am thankful to the compassionate staff in the Maternal Newborn Unit who made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for during and following the birthing process. They did everything possible to help me bond with my baby.
I am home now, and Kiara is doing well. Upon reflection, I’m so glad I chose to have my baby at North York General because it gave my family a happy start to a whole new future.