Recognition for Laura Denman, CNM, Valley Women's Healthcare Clinic

 

Here are thoughts from her colleagues on her retirement:

“I watched Laura when I was a baby nurse to learn how to be with clients. I sat with Laura as an experienced clinician and processed hard situations, about patients, policies, parenting, and teaching. She supported my growth as a clinician even when it resulted in my finding a new path, and she celebrated me nonetheless. We've challenged each other, we've cried together, and oh my goodness have we laughed together. She is a monument to midwifery, to her colleagues, students, and to the community.”

“Laura and I only had the opportunity to work together these last 2.5 years but in that time I have seen the immense joy Laura takes in caring for birthing people and families. She carries with her decades of knowledge that we have all benefited from individually and as a practice. Her deep love for midwifery, her patients, and colleagues is inspiring to all of us younger midwives.

Laura is not only generous in the care she takes of her patients, but of all her knowledge. After asking for recommendations for taking my son to see bioluminescent algae over the summer, my short text was immediately returned with a detailed voice memo telling me exactly where to go, how to get there and tips for viewing.

 In group practice we don't often get to work side by side, but one of my absolute favorite memories is coming on shift and a patient was so close to delivering. I stepped into the room and the lights were low, Laura carefully and tenderly hopping to and from the sink to warm a hot compress, and exuding calm, care, and joy for this family, even after being awake much of the night. Changing over midwives at this point in a labor is always difficult, but she helped make it such an easy transition for the patient, who felt so, so cared for. Congratulations Laura, we should all be so lucky to help as many people into the world as you have!"

“Thank you, Laura, for your commitment to the next generation of baby catchers by taking the reins with our students and working hard to prepare them. It’s not an easy task and we are thankful! I really admire your gentle hands and skill with normal birth! When you deliver our babies, I know the patients are in the best of hands.”                                                 

“I worked with Laura Denman since 2002! She has always been one of the most dedicated midwives I have ever known…kind, compassionate and determined to keep our practice the best possible, which it was!"       

“I have had the privilege of working with Laura for the past 4 years. Laura cares about her patients, and not only their health, but their overall well-being.”

"Laura! It's been an honor working alongside you for the past 20+ years. You've been an incredible mentor and role model! You encouraged and supported me in my pursuit to become an RN. Even when I doubted myself, you believed in me.

Your strength has been a source of support for many families. You’ve empowered women in the clinic, hospital, and community settings. I have no doubt that your compassionate care has positively impacted the lives of many. Wishing you all the very best in your next chapter!"

"The words that come to mind when I think of Laura: thoughtful, driven, hilarious, skillful, and loyal. Laura's midwifery leadership and mentorship has left a lasting imprint on my life and practice. Her dedication to developing and preserving a true midwifery model of care at Valley has made a profound impact on the lives of countless south Seattle families.

Laura trusted me when I was a brand new midwife, and was there for my thousands of questions. She delivered my firstborn with such calm and confidence despite a Category 2 tracing that gave us both some gray hairs.

I could go on, but when I think about Laura's legacy, it's legendary. Beyond her thorough, thoughtful care, she instilled a midwifery presence at Valley that remains strong to this day. I miss it daily. Wishing Laura a retirement full of rest, travel, laughter and good health.”  

“Laura is genuinely one of my favorite humans on this earth. She showed me what it is to be a midwife dedicated to families and midwifery. She showed me what it is to be a fiercely loving mother. She showed me what it is to be a leader who navigates the needs of families, midwives, and the business of midwifery.        

Laura has deep compassion, smart wit, profound thoughtfulness, and an unmatched work ethic. Laura has a wonderful curiosity, already filling her newfound time with experiences, challenges, and adventure. I am honored to call her mentor, colleague, and most importantly, dear friend for over 25 years. Congratulations Laura, I love you.”

“You are a remarkable nurse, woman and practitioner. You've touched so many lives personally and professionally. Thank you for all that you've done and for those you had led. Enjoy your retirement.”

“Laura embodies what it means to be a midwife. She is empathetic, reliable and is always thinking about her partners and patients. It has been a privilege to work with her.”