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November: A Daily Reflection on Prematurity Awareness
November has arrived, marking Prematurity Awareness Month. However, for me, every day serves as a poignant reminder of the journey through prematurity.
While many parents feel the chapter of prematurity closes when their baby leaves the NICU, the memories linger vividly. The sterile scent of Purell, the rhythmic beeping of monitors, and the gentle creak of rocking chairs transport us back to those challenging days.
Welcoming a child into the world too soon meant joining a club we never anticipated, yet we quickly learned the language of the NICU—terms like ROP, IVH, and NEC became part of our daily vocabulary. The joy of kangaroo care was unparalleled, as it was often the only moment we could hold our little ones without the barrier of an Isolette.
Thank You to Our NICU Heroes
To the nurses who became our unwavering support system, thank you. You were our friends and confidantes. During those long hours when I couldn’t be by my son’s side, I called to check on his oxygen levels, blood gases, and weight. Your gentle reassurances and compassion made all the difference.
I remember the day my son accidentally removed his ventilator tube, prompting a code blue. I wasn’t there to witness it firsthand; instead, I was left in the waiting area, heart racing and tears flowing, until you kindly brought me back in. Your embrace and the NICU mantra—“One step forward, two steps back”—reminded me of the resilience we all had to muster.
The NICU Journey
My son spent six long months in the NICU, where wires, tubes, and ventilators became our new normal. When he finally came home, the NICU’s presence followed him; we had tracheostomy equipment, oxygen tanks, and monitors that turned our home into a mini-hospital. The echoes of beeping machines and the lingering scent of Purell became familiar companions in our lives.
Even after leaving the NICU, prematurity remained a constant presence. For three years, we engaged with early intervention services, welcoming nurses and therapists into our home to aid in his development. There were moments I doubted he would ever clap or walk, yet he proved me wrong. I thought he’d always rely on oxygen or a trach, but he eventually thrived without them.
Reflections on Our Journey
Over the past twelve years, our lives have revolved around specialists and countless therapy sessions. There are days filled with tears, reflecting on a path I never envisioned. My son was meant to be healthy and develop alongside his twin brother, who didn’t survive—a reminder of prematurity that shadows me every day.
I don’t need November to remind me of these struggles; my son, my miracle, embodies the reality of what prematurity can do. Although he carries the label of prematurity, it does not define him. This journey forged his strength and shaped me into the mother I am today.
Further Resources
If you’re interested in learning more about the journey of home insemination, check out our related article here. For those looking to further explore the topic, Make a Mom offers great resources on home insemination kits. An excellent resource for pregnancy and fertility information can be found at Medical News Today.
In summary, the experiences of prematurity shape our reality every day, reminding us of the strength found in love and resilience.