‘After coming to NYC to help out, I’m finally flying home to my baby’

Colorado nurse Rachel Fiala, 25, volunteered to help New Yorkers during the pandemic — even though it meant leaving her baby, Michael. After four weeks in New York City, she is flying home on Sunday to be reunited with her 8-month-old son for her first Mother’s Day as a mom.

I was a nurse in an oncology unit, but when I had my son I decided to become a stay-at-home mom, while my husband, who’s a dentist, supported the family. But when the call went out for nurses, I knew I should sign up. I’m young, healthy and have worked with high-risk patients. I also come from a military family, so it felt like it was my duty to go to work.

I volunteered one Friday in early April, and the next day I was on a flight to New York. My assignment has been converting hotels near La Guardia Airport into medical centers for both COVID and non-COVID patients.

I am still breastfeeding my son, and I figured I could mail my milk home. I sent one package, but then I was given day shifts and couldn’t get to the post office. I’ve been storing the rest in the staff freezer at my hotel. By the time I leave, I should have at least 400 ounces to take home.

Whenever I have a free moment, I FaceTime my son, sing him lullabies and watch him play. The other day, he said “Mom” for the first time. I can’t wait to snuggle him. I tear up just thinking about it.

This experience has been so rewarding, but I have had only one day off and I am exhausted. Going home Sunday is the best Mother’s Day present.

READY TO GO HOME: Rachel Fiala, of Colorado, has been saving her breast milk while volunteering in New York — and this Mother’s Day she’s taking it back home to her 8-month-old son, Michael (inset).