As many of you know, last week, Lucas and Nathan made their way into the world.
Based on their estimated due date of February 17th, they were considered 33 week premature twins. While in labor, we were told without a doubt, they’d be making their way to the NICU.
In a matter of five days, our boys have amazed everyone and we have been very blessed at the progress they have been making. As a mom of a NICU baby (in our case, babies), there is lots of information and things to take in. We have met other NICU parents in passing and each baby and family has their very own story.
Leaving when I was discharged was the hardest. Despite thinking the saying Goodbyes early would make it easier, there’s still the void of going home without our little ones. We are lucky enough that we are able to call in at anytime to receive updates and parents are encouraged to be there at any time, day or night.
Of course, with other children at home-we have to find a balance, taking turns with “NICU” duties as well as keeping our other girls at the top of our lists as well. We’ve taken turns while the girls get to play.
One pet peeve that I know has already gotten to me is “When are they coming home?” Why is this a pet peeve? I am asked it every.single.day. If I knew, I’d probably be screaming it from the rooftops! Things can change quickly in the NICU. Lots of times it is one step forward and two steps back-we’ve been blessed in not having this happen. Phototherapy lights were on and off within 24 hours. The boys have continued to increase feedings without issues, body temperatures have been maintained. They are making incredible progress.
We have to take things one day at a time.
We have to find balance.
We have to be thankful for the care our little ones are receiving and the progress they are making.
Being a NICU parent is not easy but we can do it.
3 Comments
So proud of you and I can’t wait to finally hold them! <3
Your boys are doing awesome Jenna! I don’t think I could be a NICU Parent.. well if I had to be I would be. Your a strong mama and your awesome in my eyes!
As the mom of a NICU grad I can only echo how hard it is to leave the baby (or in your case babies) at the hospital while you go home. I can’t even imagine how you’re doing it with other kids. When we did the NICU it was with our first and that was hard enough. Thankfully my husband was able to work from my daughter’s pod and my mom worked in the hospital but it’s still so hard and such a difficult balancing act. You can do this!