#30DaysofBrave Day 8- Aniesa

The NICU staff are not just doctors, nurses and ancillary staff, they are family.

I delivered Hayes at 29 weeks.

I was in the hospital on bed rest for 5 days before he came and the head of the NICU along with a social worker came to introduce themselves to me.

They gave me an idea of what lies ahead. Although it was the most terrifying and uncertain time in my life, meeting them somehow put me at ease a little.

When Hayes was finally born, he was taken away immediately but I was able to see him hours later.

Every single staff member that I came across was so nice and calming but also professional.

The first day I had to leave to go home was a day I’ll never forget.

I was so afraid to leave my tiny baby boy. Will he forget me? Will he wonder where his mother went and why she left?

That night and for the next 45 days, I would call the NICU hundred of times for an update. And every time I was met with compassion and understanding. They made me feel like Hayes was the only one there and a rockstar! The staff in the NICU also made sure that I was ok. Every day they would ask how I was doing and if I needed anything.

There’s so much more I can say about the amazing NICU staff at GBMC in Maryland.

I will say that NICU nurses are angels on earth. I am forever grateful for them and all of the other staff members.

When Hayes was discharged home, it was bitter sweet. I felt like I was taking him away from his other family! They took such great care of us while prepping us for our new life without them.
We will forever be thankful for them :)