Thank you to our care team at UW Health.
Forever grateful,
The Artale's
In November 2022, I (Alyssa) was experiencing medical issues, leading to the unexpected news: I was seven weeks pregnant with our second child. Complications persisted throughout the pregnancy, resulting in my hospitalization at UW Health - Swedish American at 25 weeks pregnant. With 15 weeks until full term, I faced an extended hospital stay until after the birth.
On May 1st, 2023 - Anthony's birthday - he and Alivia (our then 2-year-old) came to celebrate with me. An hour later as I was getting ready for bed, the baby was showing signs of distress. I then called Anthony back to the hospital. Alouette "Lulu" Artale was born at 11pm (Will I ever give my husband a better birthday present?).
Anthony and I were introduced to the NICU for the first time - an overwhelming moment. The care we received was astonishing. There was not a minute that we felt ours or Lulu's needs were not being met. From the nurses that pushed and challenged Lulu at the right times, support staff for mom and family, incredible NP's, physicians and therapists that not only had experience and were confident in their treatment plan but also showed compassion. This resulting in Lulu being discharged 30 days after birth, far sooner than the anticipated 10-week stay.
At discharge we felt the nerves but more than anything felt the confidence we needed to take care of our baby at home due to the diligent care we received while there.
As we left the NICU for the last time we decided during the short walk to the car that we needed to find a way through our community and resources to give back to the place that gave us so much.
Thank you to Susan Pitkin, owner and chocolatier of Cocoa Cuvee, that offered to partner with us in the journey of giving back through Livi Lu's Chocolate, creating a high quality product for a purpose. $2 of each chocolate bar sale will go to the NICU.
A special thank you to Dr. Durkee, Dr. Ikoma, Amanda Bennett - NP, Logan Klockner - NP and our primary nurse, Mandi.