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“Even after more than 35 years, each day that I come to work, I feel like I'm witnessing a miracle,” says Laurie Smeal, RNC, “I get to be a part of someone’s birthday party!"
Meet Laurie Smeal, RNC, Mount Nittany Medical Center. Laurie is our most senior nurse within the unit, having joined the team in June 1985. Since 1993, she has solely focused on caring for laboring moms.
Throughout her career, her most memorable moments include taking care of and being cared for by family. “I delivered both of my children here and was cared for by my work family. I have also cared for family and was one of the first people to see the sweet faces of my niece and three nephews when they were born. That was special!”
Laurie is also co-chair of the bereavement program, which supports parents who experience unthinkable loss, providing keepsake items to honor their baby. “It is a special honor - a responsibility I never take lightly - to support patients and comfort them during that time. I have created lasting relationships with some of my patients from these moments," Laurie shared.
When asked about what she’s looking forward to most about the expansion of the women and children’s unit, Laurie said, “I’m looking forward to the extra comfort it will provide our patients. The rooms are larger and equipped to make families comfortable as they get to know and care for their new baby.”
The Joseph V. and Suzanne P. Paterno Women and Children’s Unit is the region's largest women and children's facility and welcomes more than 1,300 newborns every year. We are excited to celebrate the opening of the unit this month.
Laurie Smeal, RNC, Women and Children's Unit, Mount Nittany Medical Center
