Last night I met five beautiful warriors...

Last night I met five beautiful warriors and am again reminded of the unspoken bond we all share as NICU parents.

 I had the opportunity to attend a newly formed NICU support group that meets once a month in a cozy non intimidating space to share battle stories of experiences, offer support to one another, cry, laugh and just “be” for two hours. 

You’d think with journeys that are unimaginable to most mothers, that the room would be heavy and hard. But it was the exact opposite. From the moment I walked in, the welcoming smiles on these women’s faces were calming and warm. 

Everyone’s stories were very different. Each emotional, and raw with winces of pain. However every single women found a place of hope and positivity to lean towards during points of their story. And that’s what makes NICU parents so special. Despite the trauma, despite the feelings of loss, resentment, anger and fear, they show such strength. And although everyone is still dealing with these unwanted feelings, they still paused, gave hope and kind eyes while another took the floor to talk.

Far from over, these journeys will have more ups and downs. It is with great hope that these types of connections can help NICU parents lean on each other and share this unspoken bond to make the world a little lighter, even for a brief moment. 

For any Cleveland folks, this group meeting information will be listed here shortly. For others not local or able to make it, our goal is to have a space here where these parents and others can share their stories, offer some connection and hope with their words, so if you too need to be lifted, you will be able to connect and find it here.