Letter to the editor: Magee nurses deserve union representation

I gave birth at UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital and am inspired by nurses calling for a union voice.

I am so grateful to Magee nurses for helping me through the difficult birth of my son. I spent five days in the hospital after an emergency C-section and my son spent the following two weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit.

It was the nurses who made me feel comfortable holding my son whenever I wanted to, despite their having to rearrange all the cords that he was attached to. It was the nurses who explained to me how to advocate for myself with my insurance plan in order to stay longer.

I could always tell that they were extremely busy, but every single nurse clearly wanted me to get as much time, education and support as I needed.

As a patient, I felt and saw the stress of corporate-driven health care. It was the nurses who worked tirelessly to give me a compassionate, human experience. I trust their judgment and would be excited to know that they had more of a say to advocate for all of us.

That’s why I wholeheartedly support Magee nurses who are calling for a union voice. On behalf of my family, thank you.

Chelsea Gabrielson

Morningside