The Parent Perspective | May

Every month, High Risk Hope would like to highlight ongoing topics, frustrations, or curiosities in your very unique journey with high-risk pregnancy and/or premature birth. Mothers, fathers, family, and friends will touch on their personal tools, tips, and techniques to many of the ongoing concerns you face after having a high-risk pregnancy or a premature infant. Above all, remember that there are no right or wrong answers, only other parents and families figuring it out along the way, just like you. Here is what they have to say this month. Do you have a question you’d like addressed on The Parent Perspective? Email us today!

 

Elizabeth Carson | Noah, born at 27 weeks

“Mother’s Day is a celebration for moms all over the world with lots of handmade gifts, and breakfast in bed from the ones who love us most. It is completely different when your baby is in the NICU; you want to enjoy this moment, but your mind is focused on your baby’s progress and celebrations are put on the back burner. When Noah was in the NICU, Mother’s Day was towards the beginning of his stay and we knew we were not leaving for at least a couple months. My daughter was 4 years old and I remember attending a Mother’s Day tea party at her school, full of activities to show how much the children cared for their moms. In the back of my mind, I felt guilty about not being at the hospital, but my daughter needed me too. I knew Noah was in safe hands with the amazing staff who cared for him. On Mother’s Day we ventured out to the hospital and celebrated Noah’s progress coming off light therapy. My in-laws came out to visit and Noah’s “Mimi” got to help with his “touch time,” which brought so much joy to our family and reminded me that this hospital stay isn’t forever. As we approach this Mother’s Day, Noah is 4 and thriving.  I wish all the moms with babies in the NICU a special Happy Mother’s Day.”

Shea Olsen | Kipton, Beckett, and Drew, born at 32 weeks

“Mother’s Day of 2014 was one for the record books! We had triplet boys in the NICU, only two weeks old. I also had a 2, 4 & 5 year old at home that needed me. My husband and I took turns visiting the NICU each day (which was extremely difficult), but on Mother’s Day the entire family was able to visit. It was the first time we had all six of our babies together. Seeing our big kids with their new baby brothers made my heart explode. I was overwhelmed with love and gratitude in those moments.  It was very hard not being able to go home as a family that day, but I chose to be grateful for the time we had together and the memories that we made. My babies were healthy and they were in very good hands. It’s certainly a Mother’s Day I will never forget.”