Love, Danielle
“Dear NICU Mama, Your motherhood story is a reminder that joy is ahead. Sister, bring your hands to your heart to feel the rise and fall of your chest with each breath. That is a miracle. And you are no stranger to miracles. Each day that you walk through the NICU doors, you lay witness to the miracles of your sisters as well as those you call your own.
Your family is a miracle.
In this sisterhood, we invite you to explore the complexity of joy through the lens of moment-to-moment. Each moment during our journey is dynamic as we are called to live courageously amongst our greatest fears.
That, my sister, is living a joyful life. It is the beauty found in the moments that frighten us. It is the balance of what is with all that is unknown. It is the reason we wake and our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye.
Some moments will cause us unparalleled pain, perhaps a feeling of heartache beyond repair, while others will stretch a smile across our face or make us laugh. Each of these moments are sacred, and each of them contribute to our unique experience of joy.
Our joy is spirited and understanding of the delicacy of time. It is the common thread in each of our beings, and it is by way of this joy that we are able to boldly celebrate life’s moments together.
Let this serve as your gentle reminder that we are honored to walk the joyful days ahead with you.”
Love,
Danielle
More of Danielle + Dollie’s NICU Journey:
“Our daughter Dolly was born February 23rd, 2022, at 27 weeks. During our 96-day stay in the NICU Dolly was diagnosed with NEC as well as E Coli. After her NEC and E coli had been treated, she was taken to lower a level of respiratory support; however, within a week she had fallen sick again and was life flighted to another hospital. Dolly was put on full respiratory support and infectious disease began treating her for E coli again. After her E.coli had been resolved, Dolly began to work on oral feeding. Upon discharge she was on oxygen and was receiving half of her food via NG. During her initial time spent home her oral feeding did not improve and we have since participated in a swallow study. Dolly was diagnosed with a feeding disorder and all of her liquids are thickened today. She is working hard to enjoy free liquids! We are so proud of her!”
