2ND ANNUAL ADULT PROM NOW ON SALE! HEAD OVER TO OUR FUNDRAISING TAB - WE ARE SURE TO SELL OUT!

First of all, as someone who lived 10 days of the NICU life..

Take a deep breath. You are okay and your baby is in GREAT hands.

The nurses are trained and ready to help you care for your baby no matter your situation.

I hope this finds you in a moment of calm amidst what must be an incredibly challenging time. Having a child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is an experience no parent anticipates, and the emotions you’re feeling right now—fear, anxiety, hope, and love—are entirely natural.

First and foremost, I want you to know that you are not alone. The journey you’re on is shared by many families, and there is a strong community of support available to you. The doctors, nurses, and entire medical team in the NICU are deeply committed to providing the best possible care for your precious little one. They are experts in their field and have dedicated their lives to helping babies like yours grow stronger every day.

It’s important to take things one day at a time. In the NICU, progress can be slow and sometimes it may feel like you’re taking one step forward and two steps back. Celebrate the small victories, whether it’s a stable heartbeat, a good feeding, or even a peaceful moment of sleep. These tiny milestones are significant and a testament to your baby’s strength and resilience.

Allow yourself to feel your emotions, and embrace them. It’s okay to cry (you too, dads), to feel scared, and to lean on those around you for support. Share your thoughts and fears with the medical staff—they are there to help not only your baby but also you. If you need a break, don’t hesitate to take it. Your well-being is crucial during this time.

Stay connected with your baby as much as possible. Your touch, voice, and presence mean the world to them, even if it’s just through the incubator. Read to them, sing softly, and speak words of love and encouragement. These moments of connection can be incredibly powerful for both you and your baby.

Remember, the NICU journey is not one you have to navigate alone. Reach out to support groups, whether in person or online, where you can connect with other parents who understand exactly what you’re going through. Sharing experiences and hearing others’ stories can provide comfort and hope.

Above all, trust in your strength as a parent. The love you have for your child is the most important force in their healing journey. Your courage and perseverance are remarkable, and your baby feels that love every single day.

With heartfelt wishes for strength and hope,

-Jackson's Mama