Melissa Selflessly Went Above and Beyond for Our Family

When I think about the first 48 hours after our baby was born, I always remember Melissa. Melissa was our nurse the day we were admitted into Mother/Baby and on the second day. I even remember rejoicing when she walked into the room the second day.

Melissa was everything you imagine a nurse to be, gentle, kind, compassionate, and encouraging. I think any new parent can remember how awkward and shaky those first few days can feel. Melissa cared for our awkward, blossoming family with love and without judgment. She spent time answering our questions, assuring us we were doing things right, and encouraging our growth. She problem solved with and for us. She helped us find the right questions for doctors. She is all of these incredible things, while also being remarkably joyful and humble. Melissa truly set the standard for good care during the two days she was with us.

Our baby needed some extra care, including antibiotics and a possible NICU stay. This development came as a huge surprise to us and our care team, and it was quite a blow as my husband and I tried to process being admitted into the NICU. When it was time to set up the antibiotics the first time, Melissa did it in our room. I later learned that this was not typical and that usually the infant is taken to another location to receive antibiotics. Doing so in the room was actually more work for her. When asked why she did it in the room, she explained it was because “she knew I needed to be with my baby and she was happy to do it.” This was just one of many ways Melissa selflessly went above and beyond to provide care to our family.

We worked with a lot of nurses while at Bronson. Overall, we felt really lucky to have received such quality care from friendly people. However, Melissa was a highlight that we still feel incredibly grateful for.

Melissa came into our lives at a time of need. She was very helpful in suggesting methods to calm our newborn son, Rylan. She gave us the right amount of details that were helpful in the moment. She has continued to make us feel like the number one priority by helping with breastfeeding positions and advocating for the lactation consultants. Her ability to anticipate a need and position it in a helpful way has made our time with her very memorable. Since the beginning of her shift today, we have had significant improvements in feeding and calming techniques, diaper changes, and overall self-confidence. We can't thank her enough.

I currently work part-time at Bronson. I have had the pleasure of having several interactions with Mother/Baby nurse, Melissa Kuneli.

Melissa is extremely friendly to everyone I have seen her interact with, including myself. Melissa goes out of her way to help others and always has a smile on her face. She definitely enjoys what she does and it is very endearing to watch her in action.

On our first encounter, Melissa was super inclusive and treated me with the utmost respect. When I tell people about the nurses that work at Bronson and how wonderful they are, I always think of Melissa.

Melissa was the most amazing and caring nurse. She helped me with so much after I had my premature son.

Nurse Melissa has been caring for me during the majority of my stay. She has been fantastic, very caring, very kind, and understanding. She has advocated for me and has been the exact type of nurse and person I would want caring for me and my loved ones.

Melissa Kuneli, BSN, RN, is a nurse on the Bronson Methodist Hospital Mother/Baby Unit. She is a recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. To nominate a Bronson nurse for the award, visit Nominate a nurse for the DAISY Award.