Comfort Above All Else: A Patient’s Story

Renewed Confidence for Second-time Mom

Stephanie Kester had already had one child, but she went into delivery of her second unsure what to expect since it was her first time delivering at Sierra Medical Center. “I had heard amazing things about Sierra Medical Center from my friends,” she said. “One of my coworkers also delivered there and she had a great experience.”

To learn more about The Family Birth Center, Stephanie went to the hospital’s site and watched the 360-degree virtual tour of the labor and delivery suites. She was immediately impressed.

“I was already pretty convinced that I would deliver at SMC based on the recommendations from my friends, but I knew for sure once I watched the virtual tour,” she said.

In December, Stephanie went into labor. “As soon as I was brought up to the unit, I met the nursing staff and they were all so kind,” she said. “The first nurse I met was the most amazing person I have met in my life. She was genuinely interested in caring for me and I didn’t feel like she was only there to complete her job.”

Stephanie and her partner genuinely appreciated the education they received during their labor and delivery experience, as well as throughout their stay.

Going beyond the call of a nurse

“The nurse was such a comfort to have with me,” said Stephanie. “She held my hand during my epidural and sat with me. She was as much a friend to me as anyone else and went beyond her call as a nurse.”

As Stephanie’s labor continued, the staff was with her every step of the way. Their support gave her renewed confidence as a second-time mom. “Every nurse I met made me feel like I was their sole focus, even amidst other laboring moms, and I am so grateful for the care they provided,” she said.

The Kester family proudly welcomed their daughter, Austyn, on December 8, 2023. She weighed in at a healthy 7 pounds, 10 ounces, and today is growing and thriving.

The Family Birth Center at Sierra Medical Center was designed to provide families with a comfortable and safe environment during their labor and postpartum stay. We are proud to offer a supportive environment for every mom to enjoy the first moments with their newborn.

Learn more about The Family Birth Center, sign-up for prenatal classes or take a 360-degree tour →