Parent Blog: Tara Von Ahsen

In their words

Tara Von Ahsen 
Williamsburg, IA

Nolan was born Nov. 1, 2017 with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome, a very rare genetic syndrome, and spent a couple weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital because of his kidneys. He had surgery at just 10 days old on his throat because of cysts. We are first-time parents and when we were told our discharge date wouldn't happen at the time we thought, we were so nervous to leave our new baby's side. Our nurse Shelly made us cry HAPPY tears and THANKFUL tears when we returned after leaving the first time to grab clothes from home: She left us little notes that reassured us how well he did and right then I knew we'd forever be having children and appointments through the university. The staff care beyond measures. They become family. They see you at your most vulnerable moments, when you're crying, scared, nervous AND happy. They don't HAVE to, but they go above and beyond to show they care. We couldn't be happier with our experience with UI Stead Family Children's Hospital!   

This hospital is more than just a place to go when one is sick. It's a place to go with the most caring, loving, understanding staff I have ever met. They go above and beyond to show they care, you're not just a 5 o'clock appointment. You're a person with a name and a reason. They make sure to listen and explain. I'd recommend this hospital to anyone and everyone.