Meet Maurie, Preemie Parent Mentor
My preemie(s) was born at: 25.4 weeks
Days spent in the NICU: 106
Current age of preemie(s): 1
Parent of Multiples:
Our NICU Journey included: HELLP, preeclampsia,, ROP with avastin shots and laser surgery, PDA and PFO without surgery, CLD, home oxygen, feeding issues both in the NICU and at home, Early intervention and developmental delays.
What I remember most about our NICU journey was our nurses and how they became our family. When you spend everyday somewhere for over 100 days, you are bound to make some new friends. But these people became more than just friends, they became family. They turned every “up” into a big celebration and were there to listen at every “down”.
I want to reach out to other parents because I was fortunate enough to bring home a very sassy little girl and I want to give that hope to as many people as possible. I remember the days when I didn’t think she was going to make it and reading the stories about other babies gave me hope. That is what got me through some of the hardest days.
Every NICU parents/grandparents should know that every baby is different and every story is different. While we may have similar stories, our outcomes may be completely different. Preemies are resilient and they fight harder than anyone you will ever meet. And always remember that you are not alone. You have more support than you will ever know. We are all here for you and your family!
Micropreemies Issues
The micropreemie journey can be like walking through a mine field for both preemies and their families. The moms and dads of the earliest babies celebrate not only the milestones, but also the minutes. Every hour in the early days is hard won. Every milestone met, a triumph. A micro-preemie parent’s courage and resilience may be tested to the very limits. The struggle may feel never-ending, but it’s important that parents know they are never alone.
