Dear NICU Mama: Recent Episodes
Dear NICU Mama
The DNM Podcast is a weekly podcast hosted by NICU mamas and co-founders of Dear NICU Mama, Martha and Ashley! By hosting interviews with trauma-informed medical and maternal mental health experts and sharing vulnerable interviews with NICU mamas around the world, our hope is that any NICU mama listening would step out of isolation and into a sisterhood of women that can stand alongside each other as they heal and grow both in and out of the NICU.Whether your NICU journey was 50 years ago, or you find yourself in the NICU today, there is a place for you here. You are never alone. Welcome to the sisterhood!
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! Our call-in episodes are some of our favorites because they give us the chance to hear directly from YOU.
This month’s prompt was: “What does it mean to be a Walking Letter of Hope?”
In this episode, two incredible NICU mamas share what becoming a Walking Letter of Hope has meant in their own journeys. From finding community years after the NICU to becoming a source of encouragement for the moms who come after them, their words remind us that healing often grows into hope for someone else.
As we wrap up our summer podcast season, we also want to let you know that we'll be taking a short break during the month of August. We'll be back in September with a new season of conversations, stories, and hope! And there's lots more to come about Walking Letter of Hope Day, one of our favorite days of the year. Until then, we hope you have a wonderful August, and we'll see you back here in September!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week's episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined by Dear NICU Mama Board Member Nicole as she shares the story of her daughter, Layla.
After a year and a half of trying to conceive, Nicole became pregnant with Layla and was carefully monitored due to a congenital heart condition. At 32 weeks, severe preeclampsia changed everything, leading to a life threatening medical helicopter transfer from Fargo to Minneapolis and the delivery of Layla at 33 weeks. Together, they spent 46 days in the NICU.
Nicole vulnerably shares the moments that often go unspoken during the NICU journey: the fear of holding her baby for the first time, the guilt of desperately wanting to go home, the loneliness of long NICU days, and the comfort she found in the community that surrounded her. Her story is a beautiful reminder that healing doesn't come from having all the answers, but from being seen, understood, and supported along the way.
We hope this episode reminds you that no matter where you are in your NICU journey, you are not alone. There is hope in tomorrow, and there is a community of NICU mamas walking beside you every step of the way!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week's podcast episode we're revisiting a beautiful roundtable conversation from season 8 for an honest discussion about mental health after the NICU with Dear NICU Mama volunteers, Kamille and Lexxa.
Together, they share vulnerably about their own experiences with postpartum depression, anxiety, PTSD, therapy, medication, and the lifelong healing that follows a traumatic birth and NICU stay. They reflect on what it looked like to ask for help, navigate motherhood after trauma, support their mental health through different seasons, and find hope in community along the way.
Whether you are fresh in your NICU journey or years beyond it, we hope this conversation reminds you that healing is lifelong. You are not alone and asking for support is one of the bravest things you can do.
No matter where you find yourself today, we hope this episode serves as a gentle reminder that you are worthy of healing, worthy of care, and deeply loved. This sisterhood heals with you!
For the PSI Help Line, head here. For the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, dial 988 or head here.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week's podcast episode, Katie shares the remarkable story of her daughter Annie's early arrival and the incredible full circle moments woven throughout their NICU journey. At 25 weeks pregnant, Katie was unexpectedly diagnosed with severe preeclampsia and hospitalized before delivering Annie at 28 weeks. As a former 28-week preemie herself, Katie suddenly found herself walking the halls of the very same NICU where she had once been a patient.
Katie opens up about navigating the uncertainty of a high-risk pregnancy, recovering from an unexpected C-section, and supporting her daughter through her NICU stay. She also shares the often-overlooked challenges of coming home after discharge, processing the trauma of the NICU, and learning that healing continues long after leaving the hospital.
One of the most unforgettable parts of Katie's story is reconnecting with the respiratory therapist who cared for her more than 30 years ago, only to have him care for Annie before his retirement. It is a beautiful reminder of the lasting impact NICU healthcare professionals have on families and the unexpected ways hope can come full circle.
Whether you are in the NICU today or years beyond your stay, we hope this conversation reminds you that even in the hardest seasons, moments of hope, healing, and redemption can find you when you least expect them.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! Our call-in episodes are some of our favorites because they give us the chance to hear directly from YOU.
This month’s prompt was: “What words of hope or encouragement would you offer to a NICU mom who feels like it’s all too much right now?”
In this episode, mamas from across the country share heartfelt reminders of hope, resilience, and the power of community in the midst of a NICU journey. From taking things one breath at a time to holding onto the promise that brighter days are ahead, these stories offer encouragement for any NICU mom who feels overwhelmed, exhausted, or uncertain about what comes next.
We are so grateful to the mamas in our sisterhood who shared their hearts and wisdom with us, and we'd love to hear your heart!
Our next prompt is: “What does it mean to you to be a Walking Letter of Hope to another NICU mom?” To call in and share your heart, head to our submission form here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week's episode, we're welcoming back Mary Farrelly, founder of The NICU Translator and NICU Doula Academy.
Since her first appearance on the podcast, Mary has turned a dream into a growing movement. As a Level IV NICU nurse and professionally trained doula, she is passionate about helping families experience more support, more advocacy, and less trauma throughout their NICU journey.
In this conversation, Mary shares what a NICU doula is, how this unique role supports families both in and beyond the NICU, and why collaboration between doulas and medical teams matters. She also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at NICU Doula Academy and the work being done to train and equip more professionals to walk alongside NICU families during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Whether you're a NICU parent looking for support or someone interested in serving NICU families, this episode is full of insight, encouragement, and hope.
As you listen, we hope you're reminded that you deserve compassionate support throughout your NICU journey. You are not alone!
To get connected with Mary:
The NICU Translator | The NICU Doula
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, Katonya shares the incredible story of her son Kareem and the unimaginable journey that led her into motherhood. At just 22 weeks and 6 days pregnant, Katonya unexpectedly went into labor and delivered Kareem alone at home before emergency responders arrived. She opens up about those terrifying moments, the shock of becoming a NICU mom in an instant, and the emotions of watching her son fight for his life.
Katonya shares what it was like to navigate Kareem’s 180-day NICU stay, the many medical hurdles he faced as a micropreemie, and the incredible NICU staff who helped carry their family through some of their darkest days. She also reflects on coming home as a medical mom, learning to navigate life after discharge, and how her perspective has evolved throughout the eight years since Kareem’s birth.
Today, Katonya is the founder of Konnected Thru 22, a nonprofit supporting NICU families through connection, resources, and hope.
Whether you are in the NICU today or years beyond your stay, this conversation is a beautiful reminder to take life day by day and trust that you do not have to carry this journey alone!
To get connected with Katonya:
Website | Instagram | Podcast | Book
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! Our call-in episodes are some of our favorites because they give us the chance to hear directly from YOU.
This month’s prompt was: “Tell us about a moment when you felt unexpected courage.”
From emergency deliveries and NICU stays to the challenges of bringing babies home, this episode is filled with powerful reminders that courage often shows up in the moments we never expected to face. As one mama beautifully shared, sometimes courage looks like simply doing the next thing when you don't have a choice.
We are so grateful to the mamas in our sisterhood who shared their hearts and stories with us. Your vulnerability is a gift!
Our next prompt is: “What words of hope or encouragement would you offer to a NICU mom who feels like it's all too much right now?” To call in and share your heart, head to our form here. We'd love to hear from you!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this episode, Emily Souder and Mahaley Patel join us to share their motherhood journeys, their experiences navigating NICU trauma and loss, and the heart behind their new resource for NICU families, “Your NICU Story”.
Mahaley vulnerably shares the story of her daughter, Sachi, who passed away in the NICU after an HIE diagnosis. Together, Emily and Mahaley reflect on the complexities of grief, healing after trauma, supporting marriages through loss and trauma, and the importance of giving yourself permission to heal slowly and gently.
This conversation is full of tender encouragement for NICU moms in every season. From celebrating “little wins,” to caring for your basic needs, to finding support that meets you exactly where you are. As you listen, we hope you feel seen, validated, and reminded that you are never alone in your story!
Head here to purchase your copy of “Your NICU Story”!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
About Mahaley:
Mahaley Patel, LMFT, PMH-C is a licensed therapist specializing in perinatal mental health. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from UCLA and a Master’s degree from Pepperdine University. Mahaley brings a deeply compassionate, client-centered approach to her work, supporting individuals and families as they navigate pregnancy, postpartum, loss, and the complex emotional landscape of parenthood. In addition to her clinical practice, she serves on the bereaved parent advisory board at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and facilitates a child-loss support group for grieving parents.
Mahaley’s work is shaped not only by her clinical training, but by her lived experience as a bereaved mother. After losing her daughter, Saachi, she became passionate about helping bereaved parents. She is the co-author of Your NICU Story, a guided reflection journal for families navigating the NICU, and her work centers on helping parents feel less alone in moments that can feel isolating and overwhelming. Outside of her professional life, Mahaley is a wife, a mother of four, and married to actor and filmmaker Ravi Patel - which means her days are an ever-evolving mix of therapy, motherhood, and managing Ravi’s creative chaos.
Connect with Mahaley: Instagram | Website
About Emily:
Emily lives with her family in Maryland. She is a licensed therapist specializing in perinatal mental health who enjoys supporting neurodivergent families. With BA and MA degrees in sociology from University of Maryland, Baltimore County and an MSW from University of Maryland School of Social Work, Emily has written multiple books, including Your NICU Story (co-authored with Mahaley Patel); Birth Story Brave, Reimagined; and Birth Story Held for Loss and believes in the healing properties of doing story work in therapy and in life. Emily has presented twice at the annual conference of Postpartum Support International, and has offered training for Postpartum Support - Washington.
Connect with Emily: Instagram | Website | Birth Story Brave, Reimagined | Birth Story Held for Loss
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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In this week’s podcast episode, Emma shares the story of her son Grady’s unexpected NICU journey after experiencing a rare neonatal stroke at birth. What began as a healthy, full-term pregnancy quickly turned into a series of medical emergencies, including respiratory distress, seizures, an emergency transfer to Massachusetts General Hospital, and the discovery of multiple blood clots in Grady’s brain.
Emma vulnerably reflects on the fear, uncertainty, and trauma of navigating the NICU as a first-time mom while also sharing the hope, resilience, and compassion that carried their family through. As May is Stroke Awareness Month, we are especially honored to share Grady’s story and help raise awareness about neonatal stroke and its lasting impact on families.
As you listen to Emma’s story, we hope that NICU moms navigating unexpected diagnoses or medical trauma feel seen, supported, and reminded that they are never alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! Our call-in episodes are some of our favorites because they give us the chance to hear directly from YOU.
This month’s prompt was: “What words of hope would you offer to another NICU mama this Mother’s Day?”
From reminders that your feelings are valid, to encouragement that you are already an incredible mother right now, this episode is filled with the words so many of us NICU mamas need to hear heading into such a tender holiday. We also hold space for the complicated emotions that can come with Mother’s Day. The grief, the joy, the healing, the longing, the celebration—all of it belongs here.
Thank you to each of you who submitted reflections and voice memos for this episode. It is such a gift to hear your hearts and to remind one another that no NICU mama walks this journey alone!
Our next prompt is: “Tell us about a moment when you felt unexpected courage." To call in and share your heart, head to our form here. We’d love to hear from you!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This week’s episode is sponsored by Sanford Health! Through their focus on providing world-class care, Sanford is helping ensure that even the smallest and most medically fragile babies receive the care they need, while also supporting the families beside them. Thank you, Sanford Health, for helping ensure that no NICU family walks this journey alone. We are grateful for your partnership!
To get connected with Sanford Health:
Website | Facebook | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, Latoya shares her motherhood story of welcoming her daughter Skylar at 28 weeks and navigating a long and complex NICU journey. She opens up about the challenges they faced during Skylar’s 10-month NICU stay, the joy of bringing her home, and the deep love that defined their time together.
Latoya vulnerably shares about the devastating loss of Skylar at 18 months old following a medical complication, and what it has looked like to navigate grief, trauma, and healing in the years since. She reflects on the ways she continues to feel connected to Skylar, the tools that have supported her healing journey, and how she has learned to carry both grief and love side by side.
Latoya also shares about founding The Skylar Project, an organization created in honor of Skylar’s life that now supports NICU families with resources, care, and community.
As you listen to Latoya’s story, we hope that any bereaved NICU mama feels seen, supported, and reminded that your baby’s life matters deeply. We honor you and your babies this Bereaved Mother’s Day.
To get connected with The Skylar Project:
Website | Facebook | Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, we’re continuing part 2 of our C-section roundtable with Ashley, Aisha, and two incredible NICU mamas from our community, Lindsay and Kristen. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, we encourage you to start there because today we’re picking up right where we left off!
In this part of the conversation, we move into what happens after delivery. We talk about recovery, the unexpected moments, and the emotional layers that can follow a C-section. From navigating healing while your baby is in the NICU, to the complicated relationship many of us have with our scars, this conversation gently holds space for all of it.
As you listen, we hope you continue to feel seen, held, and encouraged in your own c-section and birth journey. You are worthy of care, support, and the time it takes to heal. You are never alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s podcast episode, we are sharing a replay episode from a c-section roundtable with Ashley, Aisha, and two incredible NICU mamas from our community, Lindsay and Kristen!
In this honest and gentle conversation, we share about the moments leading up to our C-sections, whether they were unexpected, emergent, or part of a high-risk journey, and what it felt like to walk through a birth experience that maybe didn’t look the way we had hoped or planned.
We talk about the loss of control, the decisions made in an instant, the things we remember (and the things we don’t), and the layers of healing that come after. We also hold space for the grief that can exist alongside deep love—and begin to gently reframe what it means to give birth through a C-section.
If you’ve ever struggled with your birth story, felt disconnected from your delivery, or wrestled with accepting your scar, this episode is for you.
As you listen, we hope you feel seen, held, and reminded that your story matters here. You are seen and loved!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s podcast episode, we share the story of Sharon and her journey of becoming a NICU mom to her twin daughters after a high-risk pregnancy.
After learning she was expecting twins, Sharon’s pregnancy quickly shifted as one of her daughters experienced growth restriction, leading to frequent monitoring, weeks in the hospital, and ultimately delivering her girls at 30 weeks via C-section.
Sharon shares vulnerably about meeting her daughters in the NICU for the first time, navigating two different NICU journeys, and what it looked like to care for her babies while also loving her two children at home. She also reflects on the ways her faith and community carried her through and what life looks like for their family today on the other side of the NICU.
Sharon’s story is one of surrender, resilience, and the power of community. As you listen, we hope you feel encouraged to take this journey one day at a time. You are not alone, NICU mama!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To join us for Celebrate Courage 2026, head here!
Grab your copy of "Right On Time" here!
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In this week’s episode, we sit down with Brent and Suzette to share the story of their daughter Chloe and her journey with a rare mitochondrial disorder. What began as a typical pregnancy quickly shifted into a complex medical journey marked by uncertainty, advocacy, and deep resilience.
Brent and Suzette vulnerably reflect on receiving Chloe’s diagnosis of Leigh Syndrome, navigating hospitalizations and developmental changes, and learning how to care for and advocate for their daughter while holding both grief and joy at the same time. Now 17 years into their journey, they offer powerful wisdom on partnership, perseverance, and choosing hope in the face of the unknown.
You’ll also hear how Chloe’s life and children like her, continue to inspire a greater mission through Morgan’s–creating inclusive spaces where individuals of all abilities are seen, valued, and celebrated.
As you listen, we hope you feel seen, supported, and reminded that even in the hardest moments, you are not alone!
The Mission of Morgan’s: To improve the quality of life for individuals of all ages and all abilities through initiatives that produce fully-inclusive, Ultra-Accessible™ experiences.
To get connected with Morgan’s:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
About Brent: Brent is the Chief Executive Officer of Morgan’s, a family of ultra-accessible, fully inclusive spaces designed with individuals with disabilities in mind and built for everyone to enjoy. With over 30 years of executive leadership experience across education, healthcare, research, and social services, Brent brings both strategic vision and heart to his work. Under his leadership, Morgan’s has grown to include a theme park, sports complex, camp, multi-assistance center, and inclusion institute, impacting communities on a local, national, and global level.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! Our call-in episodes are some of our favorites because it gives us the chance to hear from this remarkable sisterhood.
This month’s prompt was: “What would you tell a NICU mama who just received a new diagnosis for her baby or NICU grad? What is something you would want her to know?”
From reminders that you are not alone, to giving yourself grace in the unknown, to taking things one heartbeat at a time, this episode is filled with the words so many of us NICU mamas need in the tender seasons of NICU parenthood.
Thank you to each of you who submitted voice memos and reflections! Our next month’s prompt is, “What words of hope would you offer another NICU mama this Mother’s Day?” To call in and share your heart, head to our form here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s episode, in honor of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, we’re hosting a powerful roundtable conversation sharing real, honest stories from NICU moms navigating this diagnosis with their NICU miracles. Melissa, Vilma, Andrea, and Aisha together share about what it’s like to hear the words Cerebral Palsy for the first time, why it can feel so heavy, and how that understanding shifts over time. We unpack the reality that CP is a spectrum and that no two children and no two journeys look the same.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How each of them processed the diagnosis and learned to hold both grief and joy at the same time
- The importance of early intervention, advocacy, and letting your child lead the way
- What it looks like to navigate therapies, school systems, and support services
- The emotional realities of motherhood, relationships, and life after the NICU
More than anything, this conversation highlights the power of community and how reaching out, finding support, and walking alongside other moms can be essential on our healing journeys.
As we recognize Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, we hope this episode brings greater understanding, compassion, and hope. Your child’s unique story is still unfolding, and you are not alone!
To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with NICU Alumni: Website
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In this week’s podcast episode, we continue Emilee’s story as she shares what life looked like after Oakley’s diagnosis and their transition home from the NICU. Emilee opens up about navigating the unknowns of Oakley’s rare genetic deletion, making decisions about medical interventions like a G-tube and hearing devices, and adjusting to life at home with a medically complex baby. She also reflects on the learning curve of advocating for her son, finding confidence in her voice as a mom, and the ways her own childhood growing up alongside a brother with the same diagnosis has shaped her perspective.
Emilee shares vulnerably about the challenges of the early days at home, the importance of celebrating small wins after the NICU, and how she and her husband continue to prioritize their relationship while navigating the realities of medical parenting.
As you listen to Emilee’s story, we hope it reminds you that both grief and joy can exist at the same time, and that even in the most uncertain seasons, you are capable, resilient, and never alone.
To listen to part 1, listen here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, Emilee shares Part 1 of her son Oakley’s unexpected NICU journey, a story marked by emergency decisions, a rare genetic diagnosis, and a powerful full-circle moment within her own family.
After a healthy pregnancy, Emilee delivered Oakley six weeks early via emergency C-section when she noticed decreased movement in the middle of the night. What began as low blood sugar and a short NICU stay in their small Colorado town quickly turned into a transfer to Children’s Hospital, where Oakley was diagnosed with a rare genetic deletion on his X chromosome called UBE2A.
In an emotional twist, Emilee's family soon discovered that her older brother, who had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy his entire life, shares the exact same genetic deletion.
In this conversation, Emilee's shares the moment she knew something wasn’t right, the whirlwind of those early NICU days, and what it was like to receive an uncertain diagnosis. She also reflects on growing up alongside a medically complex sibling and how the strength her parents modeled now shapes the way she and her husband parent Oakley.
Emilee's story is one of resilience and unexpected hope in the middle of the unknown. We hope it reminds you that even in moments of uncertainty, you are capable, you are supported, and you are never walking this road alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! Our call-in episodes are some of our favorites because it gives us the chance to hear from this remarkable sisterhood.
This month’s prompt was: “If you could go back in time and share a word of love with yourself while you were fresh in the NICU, what would you tell her?”
From reminders to breathe, to choosing patience, to giving yourself permission to rest, cry, and not have it all figured out, this episode is filled with the words we all needed then… and honestly, still need now.
Thank you to each of you who submitted voice memos and reflections! It is such a gift to hear your hearts and to hold space for these important reminders.
Our next month’s prompt is, “What would you tell a NICU mama who just received a new diagnosis for her baby or NICU grad? What is something you would want her to know?”
To call in and share your heart, head to our form here. We’d love to hear from you!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s podcast episode, Jessica shares the remarkable story of becoming a NICU mom through adoption. She opens up about her and her husband’s journey through foster care, infertility, and the unexpected call that would introduce them to their son, Noah. Just weeks before his birth, they learned he had a complex congenital heart defect, along with other medical concerns that left doctors unsure if he would survive.
Jessica vulnerably walks us through Noah’s early arrival, his emergency transfer to a Level IV NICU, a terrifying code event at one month old, and ultimately his open heart surgery at just four months of age. She shares what it felt like to hand her baby over at the operating room doors, how NICU nurses carried hope for her when she could not carry it herself, and the tension of learning to fully embrace her role as mom while honoring Noah’s birth mother. Jessica also reflects on the emotional transition home after 84 days in the hospital and what it looked like to slowly rebuild life and create new memories beyond survival mode.
Today, Noah is thriving and living a full, joyful life. His story is one of resilience, courage, and deep trust in the midst of fear!
As you listen to Jessica’s story, we hope that any heart mama, adoptive mama, or NICU mama in the thick of it feels seen and heard. You are not alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, we’re sharing a 2026 refresh of one of our most requested and revisited conversations, originally recorded in 2021. We’re joined by pelvic floor physical therapist Jill Ehrmantraut of Apex Therapy for an honest and affirming discussion about pelvic floor health, physical healing, and sex after the NICU and birth trauma.
Jill helps us understand how birth, trauma, and chronic stress impact the body, the nervous system, and the pelvic floor. Together, we talk about common but often unspoken changes after birth, including pain with sex, muscle tension, weakness, scar tissue from C sections, emotional release held in the body, and why pelvic floor therapy can be an essential part of healing for both vaginal and C section births.
This conversation gently demystifies pelvic floor therapy, addresses fears and misconceptions, and reminds moms that discomfort, pain, and changes after birth are common, but they do not have to be your normal. Jill shares practical insight, reassurance, and hope for moms navigating physical healing after the NICU.
As you listen, we hope you feel validated, empowered, and encouraged to seek care that honors both your body and your story. Healing is not linear, postpartum is lifelong, and you are never alone in this sisterhood!
Jill is a Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist (WCS) with advanced training in pelvic rehabilitation for females, males and children. Jill graduated with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND in 2010. She has advanced training in the treatment of pelvic pain, pregnancy and post-partum issues, urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, and neurogenic bladder in women, men, and children. She also has years of experience in treating female pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor dysfunction during or after cancer treatment, pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction, and post prostatectomy incontinence in males. She is the second physical therapist in the state of North Dakota to obtain a Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy. Jill is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and a part of the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. She is also certified in Functional Dry Needling Level 1 and Pelvic Floor dry needling/Level 2.
To get connected with Jill and Apex Physical Therapy & Wellness: https://apexptwellness.com/
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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We are back!!! In this week’s podcast episode, we’re sharing a 2026 update and re-release of a conversation originally recorded in 2020, in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. We’re joined by maternal mental health therapist Natalie Reiter for an honest and compassionate discussion about sex and intimacy after the NICU and birth trauma.
Natalie explores how trauma impacts our nervous systems, why intimacy and sex are not the same thing, and how fear, pressure, and survival mode can affect connection after the NICU. Together, we talk about rebuilding intimacy, navigating mismatched desire, fear of pregnancy after trauma, and the emotional and physical changes that can shape sex after birth.
As you listen, we hope you feel seen and validated, especially during a season when expectations around love and intimacy can feel tender. Healing is not linear, connection can be rebuilt, and you are never alone in this sisterhood, NICU mama.
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Prairieland Counseling: Website
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down for a cozy end-of-year conversation to close out the 2025 podcast season. Together, they reflect on the stories, experts, and full-circle moments that shaped this year’s episodes, and share how the Dear NICU Mama sisterhood continues to impact their own healing journeys.
They also introduce something brand new to the community: our Right On Time Holiday Book Drive. After receiving more than 130 nominations from NICU moms across the country, six hospitals were selected to receive donated copies of Right On Time. This is a meaningful way for NICU families to give back to the places that cared for their babies so well!
During the episode, Ashley and Aisha walk through how the book drive works, why it matters, and how every donation helps sustain the mission of Dear NICU Mama—from this podcast, to our support groups, to the resources that meet NICU moms right where they are. $25 donates one book, and listeners can choose to gift a book to a specific selected NICU or to the general campaign.
As we wrap up another year of stories and connection, we hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone. Thank you, mamas, for being part of this sisterhood. We can’t wait to be back in 2026 with more stories of hope!
To donate to the Holiday Book Drive, head to: https://givebutter.com/dnmholidaybookdrive
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with two very special guests: Allie, a PA who cared for Ashley’s son during his NICU stay, and her husband, Troy—the illustrator of Right On Time, Dear NICU Mama’s first children’s board book. Together they share the full-circle story of how their NICU connection led to creating a book that honors and represents the diverse journeys of NICU families!
Ali reflects on her years in the NICU and her work in pediatric rehab, and Troy shares what it was like to illustrate a project so close to his family’s heart. You’ll also hear exciting updates on the book’s arrival, our successful pre-order campaign, and the upcoming Holiday Book Drive.
We hope this episode reminds you of the power of connection, storytelling, and the extraordinary milestones our NICU babies achieve, each one right on time.
Order the Right On Time book here!
To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Connect with Troy: Website | Instagram | X | Email: ttbecker@gmail.com
About Troy: It starts in New York Mills, MN where Troy was born and raised. After an affinity for drawing, comics and art - he graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN with a B.A. in Art and Communications. After a few stints in Minneapolis, Connecticut and Wisconsin he found himself back in the F-M area. Troy has been an illustrator, cartoonist and graphic artist for Forum Communications for nearly 18 years. Troy also served as an adjunct professor at MSUM from 2015-2020. The art continues in his home studio where he enjoys creating screen prints, comics and graphic novels. You can find his art in local exhibits and commissions across the upper Midwest.
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On this week’s episode, we welcome Dr. KC from Milestones & Motherhood — a pediatric physical therapist, early intervention specialist, and trusted guide for parents navigating developmental milestones. KC shares her own experience with late-preterm babies and how it shaped the compassionate, parent-centered approach she brings to her work.
We talk about what early intervention really is, why adjusted age matters, how to navigate comparison, and the power of celebrating the “mini-stones” along the way. KC offers gentle reassurance for NICU parents navigating developmental milestones post NICU.
Most of all, she reminds every parent listening that you are doing enough. Your presence and love matter, and it’s okay to take breaks, enjoy your baby, and lean on the support around you. You’re not alone in this journey!
Use code DNM10 for 10% off all courses at Milestones & Motherhood! Head here to find the courses.
Resources:
1. The Milestones & Motherhood Ministones Guide
2. Prematurity, NICU Stays & A Heart to Heart on Our Journey
Dr. KC Rickerd, PT, DPT, is a licensed pediatric physical therapist and founder of Milestones & Motherhood and Journey Through Milestones Physical Therapy. With over a decade of experience working with children from birth through age 21, she specializes in motor development, functional mobility and family education. KC’s mission is to make evidence-based developmental guidance accessible, empowering parents and caregivers to confidently support their child’s growth and reach their full potential.
Connect with KC: Instagram | Website
Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM: Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with Dear NICU Mama co-founder Martha for a vulnerable and joy-filled conversation about the early days of the sisterhood and how it all began! From the first coffee date and color-coded binder to the launch of the podcast and the years of growth that followed, Ashley and Martha reflect on what it was like to build something so meaningful together.
They share openly about the pivots, challenges, and sacred moments that shaped Dear NICU Mama, from its local beginnings in Fargo to the national community it is today. Through laughter, nostalgia, and a few tears, they revisit the “Right On Time” moments that reminded them that even in the hardest seasons, healing and connection always unfold exactly when they’re meant to.
As you listen to this episode, may you be reminded that your own story, your milestones, your friendships, and your healing are all unfolding right on time!
Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with their husbands, Ryan and Andy, for an intentional conversation about their experiences as NICU dads!
Ryan and Andy share vulnerably about the moments that shaped their journeys, from emergency deliveries and hospital stays to navigating grief, helplessness, and healing years later. They reflect on what it was like to support their partners through trauma, learn to surrender control, and find small ways to show up when so much felt out of their hands.
Together, they remind us that the NICU journey isn’t only lived by moms, and that every dad, partner, and support person plays an irreplaceable role in this story. This episode is a beautiful reminder that even when it feels like you can’t fix or control what’s happening, your presence matters more than you know.
Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with NICU mamas Vilma and Sam for a vulnerable roundtable conversation about feeding journeys after the NICU, and what it’s like when a G-tube becomes part of your story.
They share vulnerably about the emotions that come with this transition, from the relief of finally going home, to the surrender that often follows. Together, they share about the realities of adjusting expectations, redefining milestones, and learning that every feeding journey looks different–and that’s okay.
This conversation is a reminder that whether your child eats by mouth, by tube, or both, you are doing an incredible job. Your baby’s journey is unique, and no matter what that timeline looks like, it’s is always right on time.
Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, we share the audio from our recent Walking Letter of Hope Day virtual event featuring licensed therapist and birth trauma survivor Kayleigh Summers, known as The Birth Trauma Mama!
Kayleigh joins us to talk about the lasting impact of birth and NICU trauma, what healing can look like, and the hope that comes from sharing our stories in community. She offers gentle, trauma-informed insight into understanding trauma as a neurobiological response, navigating feelings of hyper-vigilance and grief after the NICU, and finding ways to honor your healing while caring for your child.
Kayleigh reminds us that trauma is treatable, healing takes time, and that hope can often be held by community until we’re ready to hold it ourselves.
As you listen, we hope you feel seen, validated, and reminded that your story — and your healing — are deeply significant. You are never alone in this sisterhood!
Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. She uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma. You can find her @thebirthtrauma_mama.
To get connected with Kayleigh:
Website | Instagram | TikTok
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s podcast episode, Ashley and former and beloved podcast co-host Martha revisit an important conversation for our NICU sisterhood: understanding IEPs and how to advocate for your child in school.
This replay episode features special education expert Catherine Whitcher, founder of Master IEP Coach, who shares practical guidance on navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, partnering with your child’s school, and finding hope and empowerment in every step.
Catherine reminds us that while the paperwork and terminology can feel overwhelming, an IEP is not a label: it’s a tool to help your child learn, grow, and thrive in the ways that fit them best. She also offers reassurance for the emotional side of this journey, especially for NICU families who have already walked through so many labels, diagnoses, and milestones.
As you listen, we hope you feel encouraged, informed, and reminded that you are the expert on your child, and that you and your little one are always, always right on time.
About Catherine Whitcher M.Ed and Master IEP Coach
Catherine Whitcher, MEd, founder and CEO of Master IEP Coach®, experienced the struggles of the Special Education system both as a certified teacher and as a sister to a wonderful man with Down syndrome. For the past 25 years, she has been creating nationwide change in special education by assisting parents and teachers in developing IEPs that work in the real world. Catherine currently leads the largest independent organization nationwide of parents and teachers working together to build better special education outcomes for the real world. She’s an expert in conflict resolution and leadership at the IEP table while always keeping the focus on preparing every child for further education, employment, and independent living.
** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In Part 2 of Kristen’s story, Ashley and Aisha dive deeper into the unique “right on time” milestones that marked her and Amelia’s 11-month NICU journey!
Kristen shares about the courage it took to face a trach and heart procedure, and how Amelia’s progress has unfolded through what she calls “inchstones.” She opens up about the challenges of coming home with medical complexity, the bittersweet transition away from daily NICU staff, and the healing process that began after discharge.
Through honesty and vulnerability, Kristen reminds us of the power of a mother’s love, the importance of giving ourselves grace, and the hope that comes from celebrating every small step forward!
As you listen, may you be reminded that in and out of the NICU, you and your baby are always right on time.
- Read Kristen' letter here.
- Listen to Part 1 of Kristen's Story here.
- Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined by Kristen, a NICU mom whose journey spans 11 months in the NICU, hospital transfers, heart surgery, and eventually a trach for her daughter, Amelia.
Kristen vulnerably shares about her water breaking at 23 weeks, the unexpected 11 weeks of hospital bedrest, and Amelia’s birth at 35 weeks. She describes the whirlwind of those first moments in the NICU, the grief of missed milestones, and the overwhelming emotions of watching her daughter fight for life.
This is part one of Kristen’s story: A moving reminder of the power of a mother’s love and the unique “right on time” moments that can be found even in the hardest seasons. As you listen, our hope is that you are reminded that you and your baby are and always will be, right on time!
- Read Kristen' letter here.
- Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined once again by their dear friend Carrie for the long-awaited part two of her family’s story.
In part one, Carrie shared about her daughter Hattie’s unexpected NICU stay after being born full term. In this follow-up episode, Carrie opens up about life beyond the NICU: the years of waiting for the possibility of heart surgery, navigating the unknowns, and preparing Hattie for the big questions and procedures that lay ahead.
She vulnerably shares what it meant to parent through fear, the gift of therapy and community support, and the power of celebrating every small win along the way. Carrie also shares how her fierce advocacy helped ensure Hattie received life-saving care at just the right time, and how her family now carries a new sense of peace and gratitude on the other side of surgery!
As you listen to Carrie’s story, we hope it brings comfort and encouragement to any NICU or medical mama walking through seasons of waiting, advocating, or doing the “hard thing.” You and your baby are always, always right on time.
Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha are joined by their dear friend and DNM team member, Kamille, for a heartfelt conversation about kindergarten milestones and what it means to parent COVID NICU babies now entering school.
Kamille and Aisha vulnerably share their journeys of navigating the NICU during the earliest days of the pandemic, balancing therapies and virtual care, and the emotions of sending their miracles off to kindergarten. Together, they reflect on the unique challenges of isolation, advocacy, and lingering NICU emotions that resurface during this milestone season.
This episode is a tender reminder that whether your child’s milestones look different, delayed, or unexpected, they are always right on time.
Pre-order Right On Time, our very first children’s board book, here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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WE'RE BACK! In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha return after a summer break to reflect on Walking Letter of Hope Day, share big back-to-school milestones, and give exciting Dear NICU Mama updates.
They also announce the release of Right On Time, Dear NICU Mama's very first children’s book. This book is a beautifully crafted children’s board book designed for NICU families, celebrating the unique milestones of every NICU graduate and the unwavering bond between parent and child. Pre-orders are available now!
Pre-order your copy here!
We are so excited to be back and cannot wait for the upcoming season of the podcast. Thank you for being a special part of this sisterhood!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Special thanks to one of our Walking Letter of Hope Day sponsors, Sanford Health!Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 53,000 employees and serves over 2 million patients and nearly 425,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 56 hospitals, 288 clinic locations, 147 senior care communities, 4,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 1,500 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to 78 specialties. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.
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In this week’s episode, we sit down with Carey, a remarkable NICU mom and cherished member of our Dear NICU Mama community and team. Carey vulnerably shares her story of an unexpected diagnosis of preeclampsia just days after moving across the country—and the delivery of her daughter Eliana at 29 weeks.
From navigating a 113-day NICU stay, including multiple heart surgeries and a G-tube journey, to processing the emotional weight of bonding, fear, and healing, Carey speaks with honesty and grace. She also reflects on the power of connection, sharing how Walking Letter of Hope Day led her to a life-changing friendship and helped her find her NICU sisters.
This episode is a gentle reminder that it’s okay to ask for help, to honor your capacity, and to trust that there is healing—and sisterhood—on the other side of NICU life. Whether you're in the thick of the NICU or reflecting years later, this episode will meet you right where you are.
To join us for walking letter of hope day, head here. To join us for our free virtual event, head here! Or learn more about the whole week’s celebration at dearnicumama.com/hope.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, Ashley and Aisha share all about one of our favorite events of the year: Walking Letter of Hope Day!
Happening on Thursday, July 31st, Walking Letter of Hope Day is a special day where we honor NICU journeys, celebrate the strength of our sisterhood, and raise crucial funds to sustain Dear NICU Mama’s mission. Whether it’s your first year participating or you’ve walked with us before, this episode is your guide to all the ways to get involved this year—from creating a fundraising team, to connecting with other moms locally, to simply wearing your merch and walking in solidarity.
Ashley and Aisha also announce an exciting new virtual event happening on Tuesday, July 29th, just before the big day! This free online event will feature two beloved speakers: Rachelle from Light After Nine and Kayleigh from The Birth Trauma Mama. With a live Q&A and a time to connect with other NICU sisters in support groups, this is a night of hope, healing, and connection that you won’t want to miss.
As you listen, we hope you feel inspired to join us in celebrating the resilience of NICU families and the power of sisterhood. No matter how you participate, we’re so grateful to walk this journey with you!
To RSVP to the virtual event, create a fundraising team, or learn more, visit dearnicumama.com/hope! To shop all of our merchandise collections, head to dearnicumama.com/shop.
To get connected with Dear NICU Mama:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
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In this week’s episode, we’re honored to welcome Andrea Hickson—two-time NICU mom and founder of NICU Alumni. Andrea shares the emotional and unexpected journeys of welcoming her daughters Lucy and Felicity, both born prematurely and with unique NICU experiences. From emergency C-sections and hospital stays to navigating life at home with early intervention and a later cerebral palsy diagnosis, Andrea vulnerably opens up about what it means to parent in the unknown.
She also shares how her personal journey inspired the creation of NICU Alumni, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families after NICU discharge with resources, guidance, and hope.
Whether you’re still in the NICU or navigating life at home, this conversation is a powerful reminder that you're not alone—and that healing and advocacy often go hand in hand.
As always, welcome to the sisterhood!
To get connect with NICU Alumni:
Website | Instagram | Podcast
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
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In this week’s episode, Brianna shares her experience as a two-time NICU mom. She shares about her first pregnancy, marked by an unexpected 20-week anatomy scan that revealed she was already two centimeters dilated. After an emergency cerclage and weeks of anxiety-filled bedrest, Brianna gave birth to her son at 28 weeks. His 60-day NICU stay, though miraculously smooth, left a lasting emotional impact.
Just 14 months later, Brianna returned to the NICU after giving birth to her second son at 33 weeks. This time, the challenges of healing were compounded by the reality of having a baby at home while navigating the NICU once again.
Brianna shares vulnerably what it’s like to walk through two high-risk pregnancies, how her perspective shifted between them, and what healing looks like after back-to-back trauma. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of fear and uncertainty, you are stronger than you think—and you are never alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
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In this episode of the Dear NICU Mama podcast, we're joined once again by the remarkable Kayleigh Summers, also known as The Birth Trauma Mama, for a heartfelt conversation about how friendships shift in the wake of birth trauma and NICU experiences.
Together, Ashley, Aisha, and Kayleigh open up about the grief of changing relationships, the identity shifts that happen after trauma, and the surprising ways connection can still be found. From feeling misunderstood to discovering unexpected community, this episode offers validation, insight, and encouragement for any NICU or loss mom navigating friendships during their healing journey.
Whether you’re in the thick of it or years removed, this conversation reminds us: you are allowed to change, and you are worthy of being loved exactly as you are!
Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. She uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma. You can find her @thebirthtrauma_mama.
To get connected with Kayleigh:
Website | Instagram | TikTok
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
Support the show
In this week’s episode, we continue part 2 of Sam’s remarkable motherhood journey as she opens up about the emotional and physical toll of life after a traumatic birth and the journey of becoming a NICU and medical mama.
Sam shares vulnerably about her daughter’s fragile start after being born at 24 weeks, the devastating reality of an MDR E-Coli diagnosis at just five days old, and the long road to recovery in the NICU—including respiratory setbacks, feeding challenges, and two unexpected surgeries. She also offers insight into navigating life after discharge with a G-tube, and how she's embraced her role as a medical mama with courage and resilience.
Whether you’re in the NICU now or adjusting to life at home, Sam’s story is a powerful reminder that you are not alone—and that you are braver than you feel. Her honesty, wisdom, and strength will leave you feeling seen, validated, and supported.
To listen to part 1, listen here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, we sit down with Sarah Hogan, a courageous NICU mom and military spouse, whose story embodies the truth that the NICU is a marathon, not a sprint. Sarah shares her high-risk pregnancy and the traumatic sequence of events that led to her daughter Sadie’s premature birth at 28 weeks—beginning with a seizure while driving with her sons and her husband deployed on a submarine.
Sarah vulnerably walks us through the emotional weight of parenting two young boys during a months-long NICU stay, navigating a four-hour daily commute, and adapting to life after Sadie’s multiple surgeries, including a G-tube placement. From delayed bonding to the strength of community and the complexity of military family life, Sarah’s journey is one of healing and hope.
As you listen, we hope you feel reminded that even in the chaos and constant adaptation of the NICU journey, you are not alone—and it’s okay if your story looks different than you expected.
To listen, you can find us on iTunes , Spotify, or by clicking the link below!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, we sit down with Sam, a remarkable NICU mom and valued member of the Dear NICU Mama team and sisterhood. Sam vulnerably shares part 1 of her motherhood journey with the story of her family-building journey—navigating infertility, a PCOS diagnosis, and the heartbreak of unexpected complications during pregnancy.
At just 21 weeks pregnant, Sam’s water broke. With brave vulnerability, Sam walks us through the tender moments of hospitalization, difficult conversations with providers, and the delivery of her daughter’s early birth at 24 weeks and 4 days.
Join us the first week of June for Part 2, where we dive into their NICU stay together and life at home. As always, this sisterhood hopes you feel seen, supported, and reminded that you are never alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this special episode, we’re holding space for the complicated emotions that can come with Mother’s Day after a NICU experience.
This conversation is close to our hearts—it’s a live recording from our recent Dear NICU Mama Virtual Live Podcast Event, where we gathered with NICU moms from across the country to connect, reflect, and honor the duality of this season!
In this roundtable discussion, hosts Ashley and Martha sit down with members of the Dear NICU Mama team to talk about what it means to celebrate Mother’s Day after the NICU—where joy and grief often coexist.
Together, they chat about:
- The bittersweet emotions Mother’s Day can bring for NICU moms
- Navigating celebration while honoring loss, trauma, and unmet expectations
- How healing, time, and support can soften the holiday experience
- The power of being seen, validated, and supported by community
Whether this is your first Mother’s Day or your fifth, whether you're in the NICU or years into life at home—this conversation is for you. However this season feels, you are never, ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
Support the show
In this week's roundtable replay, Co-Founders Ashley and Martha are joined by Dear NICU Mama editorial team member Lindsay for an honest conversation all about bonding with our NICU babies. Together, they reflect on the tender, complicated, and deeply personal journey of building a bond in the NICU—what it looked like for them, how they navigated grief, fear, and comparison, and how bonding continued to grow once they were home.
Whether your bond felt instant, delayed, or still evolving, this episode is a reminder that your baby knows your love, and your bond is more than felt—it's built, nurtured, and deeply real.
Plus, we’re sharing a special announcement about our 2025 Mother’s Day campaign and how you can celebrate a NICU mom in your life by sending her a personalized card—while supporting the mission of Dear NICU Mama. Visit dearnicumama.com/give to honor her today!
You are never, ever alone. Welcome to the sisterhood.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this episode, we continue with part two of NICU mom Rebekah and her son Elias. After a traumatic birth and critical early days in the NICU, Rebekah shares what came next—the challenges of feeding, navigating a brain injury diagnosis, and the emotional weight of waiting for answers.
Rebekah opens up about the realities of parenting a medically complex child, the grief of letting go of her original feeding goals, and the healing that came when she embraced Elias’s unique path. She shares honestly about life at home post-discharge, the process of receiving a cerebral palsy diagnosis, and the deep joy of watching Elias grow into the strong, vibrant boy he is today!
For any NICU or medical mama walking a path that feels uncertain, Rebekah’s story is a reminder that even when life looks different that we had envisioned, it can still be beautiful and full of life.
To listen to part 1 of Rebekah's story, listen here! To get connected with Rebekah: Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week’s episode, we sit down with NICU mom and fierce advocate Rebekah, who vulnerably shares the extraordinary story of her son Elias’s birth and beginning of life. Rebekah walks us through her story of a sudden placental abruption at 28 weeks, an emergency C-section during the early days of COVID-19, and the hours that followed when Elias was flown by helicopter to a Level IV NICU in critical condition.
With immense amounts of vulnerability, Rebekah opens up about the terrifying uncertainty of those first days, and the powerful moment of hope when Elias took his first breath. She reflects on what it means to parent through trauma, the deep grief of losing control over her birth experience, and the fierce strength NICU moms carry when all they can do is hold on and hope.
If you’ve ever felt frozen in fear or unsure how to keep going, Rebekah’s story is a reminder that our babies are strong, your voice matters, and you are never alone.
Stay tuned for part 2 next week!
To get connected with Rebekah: Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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Welcome to Episode 4 of our Baby Showers Mini Series!
In this final episode of the series, we’re exploring a topic that can feel especially tender: attending baby showers after a NICU experience.
This conversation is extra special—it’s a live recording from our very first Dear NICU Mama Live Podcast Event! We gathered virtually with NICU moms from across the country for a night of connection and storytelling.
In this roundtable discussion, hosts Ashley and Aisha sit down with Dear NICU Mama team members Vilma and Carolissa to talk about what it’s like to receive a baby shower invitation after the NICU and how to navigate those moments with care.
Together, they chat about:
- The emotional impact of attending a baby shower after trauma
- Checking in with your heart and honoring your limits
- Finding ways to show up for loved ones while protecting your own healing
- How time, therapy, and community can help you feel more grounded
- Practical tools and words of encouragement for moms facing an upcoming shower
If you’ve ever felt torn between supporting a friend and caring for your own heart, this conversation is for you. Whether you attend, leave early, or choose not to go at all—you are not alone, NICU mama.
Thank you for joining us for this series. It has been such an honor to navigate the emotions surrounding baby showers together!
Resources & Links:
Baby Showers Mini Series Ep 1 | Baby Showers Mini Series Ep 2 | Baby Showers Mini Series Ep 3
To get connected with Dear NICU Mama:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
Support the show
Welcome to Episode 3 of our Baby Showers Mini Series!
This week, we’re diving into the tender and emotional experience of navigating baby showers after loss.
For some, baby showers are a joyful milestone. But for those who experience miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss, they can bring a wave of grief, unmet expectations, and lasting heartache. In this roundtable conversation, hosts Ashley and Aisha are joined by fellow NICU and loss mama Mollie to share their deeply personal experiences of planning for baby showers that never happened—or looked entirely different than imagined.
Together, they open up about:
• Navigating the heartbreak of canceled or virtual showers due to premature deliveries
• The emotional weight of receiving baby gifts after loss
• The sacred role of loved ones who help hold space and protect a grieving heart
• The value of memory-making and keepsakes in honoring the babies who are no longer here
• Honest reflections on what they wish they could tell their younger selves in the midst of grief
Whether you’re a NICU mom who’s experienced loss or you’re walking alongside someone who has, we hope this episode helps you feel seen, validated, and less alone. You, and your baby’s story, are so deeply loved and worthy of being honored.
Stay tuned for the next episode in this series, where we’ll discuss the experience of attending baby showers after a NICU journey!
Resources & Links:
Baby Showers Mini Series Ep 1 | Baby Showers Mini Series Ep 2
To get connected with Dear NICU Mama:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
Support the show
Welcome to Episode 2 of our Baby Showers Mini Series!
This week, we’re diving into the experience of attending a baby shower while your baby is in the NICU—a reality that many NICU moms never expected to face.
For some, baby showers are filled with excitement and joy. But for those navigating a NICU journey, they can bring complex emotions, unexpected grief, and even difficult decisions about whether to attend, postpone, or celebrate in a different way. In this roundtable conversation, hosts Ashley and Aisha sit down with Dear NICU Mama team members Lindsay and Kirsten to share their personal experiences of having a baby shower while their babies were in the NICU due to premature deliveries.
Together, they open up about:
• The emotional toll of attending a shower while your baby is in the NICU
• Navigating well-meaning but difficult questions from guests
• Allowing yourself to grieve the baby shower you envisioned while also embracing gratitude for the one that became part of your story
• Words of encouragement for NICU moms making these tough decisions
No matter where you are in your healing journey—whether you're grieving the shower you longed for or finding gratitude in the one that became part of your story—you are not alone, NICU mama. Stay tuned for the next episode in this series!
Resources & Links:
Baby Showers Mini Series Ep 1
To get connected with Dear NICU Mama:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
Support the show
Welcome to Episode 1 of our Baby Showers Mini Series! This week, we are diving into the emotional side of planning (or not planning) a baby shower while navigating a high-risk pregnancy.For many, baby showers are a moment of joy and celebration—but for NICU moms and those with high-risk pregnancies, they can bring complex emotions, uncertainty, and grief. In this roundtable conversation, hosts Ashley and Aisha sit down with returning guests Jamie and Kamille to discuss their personal experiences and the unique challenges they faced when it came to planning, or now planning, their own baby showers after their pregnancies became high-risk.
Together, they open up about:
• Balancing hope and fear when planning a shower
• The grief of missing out on traditional celebrations
• Protecting your heart while making space for joy
• Words of encouragement for NICU moms and high-risk pregnancy parents
If you’ve ever felt conflicted about celebrating your baby in the midst of medical uncertainty, this episode is for you. You are not alone, NICU mama. Stay tuned for the next episode in this series!
Resources & Links:
Jamie’s Podcast Episode | Kamille’s Podcast Episode
To get connected with Dear NICU Mama:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
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In this week’s special teaser episode, Ashley and Aisha introduce an exciting new mini-series all about baby showers—a topic that brings up a mix of emotions for many NICU moms. Whether you’ve attended a shower after a traumatic birth, celebrated while your baby was still in the NICU, or never had one at all, this series will explore the deeply personal and varied experiences of baby showers in the NICU community.
Ashley and Aisha share their own stories, reflect on the complexities of navigating baby showers after a NICU stay, and discuss how this milestone can bring both joy and grief. The series will include roundtable discussions with other NICU moms and insights from a specialist on how to prepare your heart for attending (or hosting) a baby shower post-NICU.
Plus, they introduce an exciting idea: a live podcast event where the Dear NICU Mama community can come together in real-time!
Stay tuned for the first episode in this heartfelt series, and be sure to connect with us on Instagram or our private Facebook group to share your thoughts and experiences.
Have ideas or topics you'd like us to cover? Email us at podcast@dearnicumama.com
To get connected with Dear NICU Mama:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To Give to the Mission of Dear NICU Mama: dearnicumama.com/give
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In this episode, we sit down with NICU mom and Joy of Creative Play founder, Lauren, as she shares her extraordinary story of navigating a high-risk pregnancy, in-utero procedures, and the overwhelming uncertainty of a rare diagnosis. Lauren opens up about the realities of facing the unknown, the power of advocating for her daughter’s care, and the unexpected ways joy and hope showed up along the way.
She also reflects on the challenges of bonding after a traumatic birth, the emotional toll of the NICU journey, and how her experience inspired her to create resources that bring connection and creativity into everyday moments with children.
For any NICU mom who has ever felt lost in the uncertainty of the journey, Lauren’s story is a powerful reminder that your voice matters, your presence is enough, and you are never alone.
To get connected with Lauren: Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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Happy Valentines Day, NICU mamas! In this episode, we are honored to welcome Ashton, a well-known Enneagram expert, content creator, and fellow NICU mama, as she shares her unexpected journey into the NICU.
Ashton’s pregnancy with her second child, Evans, seemed routine, until an unexpected bleed at 33 weeks changed everything. What started as a quick check-in at the hospital turned into an urgent C-section, leaving Ashton to process the whirlwind of emotions that followed. She opens up about the shock of an early delivery, the challenges of navigating life with a toddler at home while her newborn remained in the NICU, and the emotional weight of not having clear answers about why her pregnancy took this sudden turn.
She vulnerably shares about Evans’ NICU stay, the highs and lows of his breathing struggles, and the unexpected complexities of having a "big" NICU baby. Ashton also reflects on the realities of healing, both physically and emotionally, after a premature birth, how relationships shifted in the wake of trauma, and the importance of asking for help.
As you listen to Ashton’s story, we hope that other NICU moms, especially those navigating the dual role of caring for a baby in the NICU while balancing life at home, feel seen, validated, and reminded that you are never alone.
Also, we’re so excited to celebrate Giving Hearts Day this week! This 24-hour day of radical generosity is a vital fundraiser that helps fuel the work of Dear NICU Mama, allowing us to continue offering support groups, outreach initiatives, and resources for NICU mothers. If you’d like to support our mission, visit dearnicumama.com/give to make a donation. Every gift, no matter the size, helps us reach more NICU moms with hope and community!
To get connected with Ashton: Website | Instagram | Free Enneagram Guide
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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We are excited to be back on the podcast with this sisterhood! To kick off our return, we are honored to share Jamie's story.
Jamie, a labor and delivery nurse, never expected to find herself on the other side of care, but at 20 weeks, unexpected complications changed everything. She opens up about the emotional toll of bed rest, the moment she realized she wouldn’t be leaving the hospital until her daughter was born, and the heartbreaking reality of delivering at just 26 weeks.
Jamie vulnerably reflects on the highs and lows of their NICU experience, from hearing her daughter’s heartbeat slow on the monitor to facing diagnoses like IUGR, a PDA, and a grade three brain bleed. She shares how she found strength in her faith, family, and the unwavering love for her daughter, Nala, as they navigated the unknowns of prematurity and long hospital stays.
As you listen to Jamie’s story, we hope that other NICU moms, especially those facing high-risk pregnancies and early deliveries, feel seen, supported, and reminded that you are never alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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The holiday season is often filled with joy, but for families in the NICU, it can also bring a unique set of challenges and emotions. In this roundtable episode, Aisha is joined by fellow NICU moms Kamille and Taylor, who share their experiences of spending the holidays in the NICU with their babies!
Together, they share what it’s like to navigate the holiday season while balancing the realities of a NICU stay, the grief of missing milestones, and the beauty of creating meaningful moments even in difficult circumstances. Kamille and Taylor reflect on the moments of joy and heartache they experienced, how they honored their emotions, and the traditions they’ve carried forward to celebrate their NICU journeys today.
Whether you are spending this holiday season in the NICU or processing memories of past holidays spent there, we hope this episode reminds you that your feelings are valid and that you are never alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this episode, we sit down with Rachell Dumas, founder of A Light After Nine, to hear her journey through loss, resilience, and advocacy. Rachell shares her experiences of multiple pregnancy losses, advocating for herself and her babies, and finally welcoming her son after an incredibly challenging journey. She opens up vulnerably about her path to bonding with her son and offers encouragement to other NICU moms who didn’t or don’t feel an immediate bond with their babies.
We also explore medical advocacy, the complexities of bonding after loss or a NICU experience, and the power of support and community. Through her nonprofit, A Light After Nine, Rachell provides resources, mentorship, and advocacy to moms facing similar challenges!
We hope this episode reminds you that no matter where you are on your healing journey, you are seen and loved.
To get connected with A Light After Nine:
Website | Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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We are excited to be back after the Thanksgiving break! On today’s episode, we have the opportunity to hear Serenity’s NICU journey with her daughter Amirah. Serenity opens up about her unexpected high-risk pregnancy and her daughter Amirah’s premature birth at 25 weeks.
Through her story, she reflects on the challenges of balancing life as a NICU mom and a full-time student, the difficult decisions she faced along the way, and the moments of hope and healing that have shaped her into the fierce advocate and loving mother she is today.
Now thriving as a social work graduate, Serenity shares her passion for advocating for Black maternal health and how her NICU journey has fueled her mission to support mothers and families. We also discuss the recent Bundle Up Commute Kits project we collaborated on to provide practical support for rural NICU families during harsh winters!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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This week’s podcast episode is a replay of an episode from season 3 with Natalie Reiter of Prairieland Counseling! With the holidays approaching and with many of us having hard conversations with loved ones about boundaries, we wanted to share this episode as an extra boost of confidence.
This sisterhood believes in you, is so very proud of you, and is wishing you a very gentle Thanksgiving. We will be back first week of December!
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Oh, boundaries. We all know we need them, but setting and defining them can feel really complicated! Especially when we are setting boundaries with the people we love most in our lives.
As we approach another holiday, we wanted to sure to have an open and honest conversation about boundaries that not only offers insight into what healthy boundaries can look like, but also offers helpful tools on how to implement these boundaries. We couldn't think of a better guest and teacher to have share about this on our podcast than the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling!
In this episode we cover:
- What a healthy boundary is and how do define what a healthy boundary is for your family
- How to define and set these boundaries with loved ones without damaging the relationship
- How to navigate boundaries when your partner's boundaries may differ
- Conversational examples of how to verbally have the discussion about boundaries with family and close friends
Whether you are new to setting boundaries or have been doing this for years, we hope that this podcast affirms you and gives you courage as you define what a healthy boundary is for your family!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this week's episode, we are joined by Chrissy and Naomi from Courageous Parents Network (CPN), a nonprofit with a mission to orient and empower parents and others caring for children with serious illness by providing resources and tools that reflect the experience and perspective of families and clinicians. Together, we dive into the realities and misconceptions of pediatric palliative care.
Chrissy, a pediatric psychologist and Director of Clinician Engagement at CPN, clarifies the holistic role of palliative care, debunking myths that often equate it to hospice. She explains how palliative care can begin at diagnosis and supports the whole family emotionally and practically throughout the medical journey. Naomi, a life doula and grief coach, shares her personal journey with her son, Noah, who has faced significant medical challenges since birth. She discusses the invaluable support she received from CPN and how palliative care helped her reclaim her role as a mother, not just a caregiver.
This conversation offers a wealth of insights for NICU parents, covering topics like decision-making, self-advocacy, and the importance of family-centered support. We hope that this episode empowers you to seek out resources like palliative care and other support tools that can provide the guidance and compassion every NICU family deserves!
To connect with Courageous Parents’ Network resources:
Facebook | Instagram | Website
To learn more from Naomi:
Videos | Blogs | Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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In this episode, Makayla shares her journey of navigating the NICU as a single mom. She opens up about her pregnancy, her intuition that something unexpected was ahead, and the sudden complications that led to an early delivery and a challenging start for her daughter, Winona.
Makayla reflects on the emotional experience of seeing Winona in critical condition, the many moments of fear and hope, and the incredible resilience she witnessed as her daughter defied the odds. She also speaks candidly about the unique challenges and strength required to face the NICU journey without a partner, finding support through her family and Winona’s dedicated NICU team.
As you listen to Makayla’s story, we hope that other single NICU moms and those navigating medically complex journeys in our sisterhood feel seen and supported. You are seen and loved, NICU mama!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
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It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! This episode’s prompt was, "Share a moment, in or out of the NICU, where you experienced unexpected joy."
Thank you to each of you for submitting your stories of unexpected joy for this month’s prompt. It’s an honor to celebrate these moments with this sisterhood!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this week’s podcast episode, Taylor shares her unique journey of becoming a NICU mom through adoption. She opens up about her and her husband’s decision to adopt, their struggles with infertility, and the emotional experience of meeting their daughter, Selah, who was born four weeks early and spent a month in the NICU. Taylor reflects on the challenges of navigating both adoption and the NICU experience, how they celebrate Selah’s milestones today, and what life at home looks like as a family of three!
As you listen to Taylor’s story, we hope that other adoptive NICU moms and families feel seen and supported. You belong here, NICU mama.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, Mollie shares her motherhood story of carrying identical twin girls, navigating a high-risk pregnancy, and experiencing both the joy of motherhood and the heartbreak of loss. Mollie opens up about the unexpected challenges she faced as a NICU mom, from giving birth at 26 weeks to her daughter Veronica’s fight for survival in the NICU, and the devastating loss of her daughter Athena. She reflects on the emotional journey of healing, the complexities of navigating life after loss, and how she honors Athena’s memory while celebrating Veronica’s milestones today.
As you listen to Mollie’s story, we hope that any mom who has experienced loss or a NICU journey feels seen and understood. This #infantlossawarenessmonth, we honor you and your Angel babies, loss NICU mamas.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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On this week’s podcast episode, we hear the story of Anne and her son August’s unexpected unexpected NICU journey. She shares vulnerably about the moments leading up to his delivery, the emotional rollercoaster of seeing her son in the NICU for the first time, and what it was like to navigate their NICU journey as a full-term NICU family. She also shares about life at home and how they celebrate his milestones today.
As you listen to Anne’s story, we hope that other full-term NICU moms in our sisterhood feel seen and validated. You are never ever alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! This episode’s prompt was, “As a NICU parent, what were the moments during your NICU journey when you felt you needed the most courage? Or when do you believe you demonstrated the greatest courage?”
We're now accepting submissions for our October call-in episode: "Share a moment, in or out of the NICU, where you experienced unexpected joy." You can either call 701-404-7573 and leave a voicemail with your name, location, and response, or email your submission to podcast@dearnicumama.com, and our hosts will read it on the podcast! Submissions will then be reviewed and selected by our team until October 22nd.
Thank you to each of you for submitting your stories of courage for this month’s prompt. It’s an honor to celebrate and recognize the courage that lives in you!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week’s podcast episode, we continue Sarah’s remarkable NICU journey with her twin boys, Noah and Uriah.
Throughout this episode, Sarah shares the challenges of navigating complex medical decisions, including both boys’ heart surgeries and Uriah’s extended NICU stay. She opens up about the emotional process of bringing Noah home while Uriah remained in the hospital and the life-changing decision to give Uriah a trach. We learn more about her journey to becoming a medically complex NICU mama, and how she has navigated and embraced having home health nursing in this season of her family’s life.
As you listen to part two of Sarah’s story, we hope you feel reminded that NICU mama, there is goodness ahead. You can do this, and you are never alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Dear NICU Mama podcast is back! While we’re grateful for the extra time we had with our families this summer, we’re so excited to be back in this space with all of you. To kick off Season 9, we are honored to share part 1 of Sarah’s powerful NICU journey with her twin boys.
In this episode, Sarah opens up about the unexpected complications during her pregnancy, her time on bed rest, and what led to their emergency c-section at 25 weeks. She shares her experience navigating those early, uncertain days in the NICU and how she coped with the challenges of having medically fragile preemies.
As you listen to Sarah’s story, we hope you feel seen, empowered, and reminded of the incredible strength we all carry as NICU mothers. This sisterhood is proud to walk alongside you.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week’s episode we have a conversation about life after NICU with Mary Farrelly with The NICU Translator! Mary Farrelly is a certified NICU nurse, doula, nurse educator, mom of two and the founder of The NICU Translator where she helps to bridge the gap between the NICU and home through education, community and 1:1 support.
In this episode we continue our theme of life after NICU and Mary shares how she got started, and her heart to provide support for NICU families once they are home. She also develops curriculums to train nurses on how to better bridge the gap from being in the NICU and getting discharged.
We hope that as you listen to this episode you are reminded that you are deserving of care and support throughout your entire NICU journey during your NICU stay, but when you are discharged and at home as well.
The NICU Translator is offering the following resources to the Dear NICU Mama Sisterhood:
FREE The NICU Family's Guide to Getting the Most Out of Each Medical Appointment: Includes a detailed checklist and helpful tools for preparing for and navigating each appointment so you can feel empowered to navigate the complex healthcare system and feel confident to best advocate for your NICU baby.
FREE Friends and Family's Guide to Your NICU Baby: Do you wish your friends and family understood what makes your NICU baby different compared to a “regular” newborn? Let me help break it down for them so you don't have to be the bad cop and they understand how to keep your baby safe as you head home from the NICU.
Additionally, use the code “DEARNICUMAMA” for 30% off your first 1:1 session or use the code "NICUMAMA" for 30% off of the annual membership.
About Mary:
With over a decade of experience as a Level IV NICU nurse and nurse educator, Mary has supported hundreds of NICU families, both at the bedside and during the transition home. She has created and taught a comprehensive curriculum for new nurses, drawing on her expertise in neonatal pathophysiology and best practices. Her work has been instrumental in preparing healthcare professionals to deliver exceptional care to the most vulnerable infants and their families.
Mary is passionate about enhancing the NICU discharge experience by empowering families with evidence-based education and support, helping them to create a nurturing environment where their family can thrive. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Richmond and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Virginia Commonwealth University.
To connect with Mary and her work at The NICU Translator:
Website | Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Walking Letter of Hope Day is THIS SUNDAY, July 28th! And to celebrate, we have the honor of sharing Daniela’s NICU journey with her full-term son Mateo. She shares openly about her unexpected complications during labor that lead to an extended NICU stay, what it was like to deliver and navigate the NICU during the pandemic, and how she found the courage to grow her family again. We also chat about what being a #walkingletterofhope means to her and how she found hope and healing after the NICU.
We hope that as you listen to Daniela’s story you feel seen and validated, and are reminded that no matter the differences in each of our journeys there is a through line that connects us all. You are never alone!
To join us this Walking Letter of Hope Day and to help raise crucial funds for Dear NICU Mama’s programs and services like this podcast, head to dearnicumama.com/hope. Thank you to Gate City Bank for being a sponsor for this year’s Walking Letter of Hope Day!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Three years after Ashley’s first son, Vinson, was born at 21 weeks gestation and passed away shortly afterward, she welcomed her second son, Kolin, at 25 weeks gestation via emergency c-section. Just days after his birth, Kolin was diagnosed with bilateral brain bleeds. During his stay he also developed hydrocephalus and required a shunt, not to mention the PVLs. Despite being told of all the things Kolin might never do, he defied the odds. After 183 days, Kolin was discharged and finally went home.
In this episode, Ashley shared vulnerably about her experience of navigating grief amidst a series of challenging hardships. She discusses managing countless appointments and assessments upon returning home, and sheds light on the journey of advocating for herself and Kolin as he grows. Despite the difficult path they've traveled, Ashley reflects on the beauty and healing of their story.
We hope Ashley and Kolin's story offers a beacon of hope to this sisterhood, reminding you that you're not alone and that there is goodness ahead.
To connect more with Ashley:
Instagram | Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if indecisiveness is a result of our birth and NICU trauma? On today’s podcast episode, we have speaker and somatic trauma consultant Parijat Deshpande on the podcast and we have an insightful conversation all about indecisiveness how we can identify it as a signal rather than a problem to be fixed.
Throughout this episode we talk about:
• The different types of “threat state patterns” and a quiz to identify them
• How identifying our threat patterns can help us move through indecisiveness
• Gentle practices a NICU mom can utilize to make decisions and not feel “stuck”
• Encouragement for NICU mamas feeling discouraged by their lack of ability to make quick decisions after birth and NICU trauma
Our hope is that NICU mamas listening who are feeling discouraged by feeling like they are in a state of indecisiveness feel empowered and encouraged throughout this episode. You are not alone!
For the month of July, members of the Dear NICU Mama community have access to The Ruvelle Experience for 25% off using the code “RUVELLEDNM2024”!
To connect with Parijat and her work at Ruvelle: Website | Instagram
About Parijat:
Parijat Deshpande is a founder of Ruvelle, the only truly trauma-informed company specifically dedicated to improving high-risk pregnancy outcomes, reducing preterm birth, and supporting parents on the entire high-risk pregnancy journey. On a mission to end the high-risk pregnancy crisis, she has served and supported thousands of clients through her live events, one-on-one work, Ruvelle’s private members’ club, her bestselling book, Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy, and the Body Language Journal.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week is part 2 of Trisha’s motherhood journey! Throughout this episode, Trisha shares about the early days at home with her twins, what it was like being pregnant after a high-risk pregnancy and NICU journey, and her daughter’s diagnosis with Down Syndrome. She also shares openly about the journey to becoming the advocate she is today, encouragement for medically complex families who are navigating summers without routine, and what lead her to launch Inclusion Ink!
To connect with Trisha and her work at Inclusion Ink: Website | Instagram
About Trisha Stibbe:
Trisha Stibbe was born and raised in Fargo. After marrying her high school sweetheart they moved to Omaha, NE where they spent the next decade. Finally back in their hometown, Trisha and her husband Adam are raising four kids with big personalities. Twins Sam and Jack were born in 2010 at 28 weeks, thrusting Trisha and her husband into the world of special needs parenting. A few years later, in 2012, Adam and Trisha welcomed son Eli. Not content with stopping when things seemed easy, they welcomed daughter Claire into their family in 2015. Claire was a surprise for many reasons, but the biggest of all came at her birth when they were told she had Down Syndrome and a heart defect. Trisha recently launched Inclusion, Ink - an information portal dedicated to making advocating easier. She spends most of her “free time” advocating for special needs and inclusion, going to various and plentiful doctors appointments, acting on the Board of Managers of GiGi’s Playhouses, and meeting her caffeine limit by about 9:00 a.m. every day. She deals with her crazy life best with sarcasm and has found a creative outlet through her blog. You can follow her on Instagram @tstibbe and @inclusionink
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week’s episode, we talk with Trisha Stibbe and hear the story of her identical twins, Sam + Jack who were born at 28 weeks! Trisha shares about her journey navigating twin to twin transfusion, an early delivery, and advocating for her twins in the NICU. She also opens up about isolation, how friendships shift and change, and the new identity that NICU moms often go through on top of navigating complicated NICU journeys.
We hope that as you listen to Trisha’s story, you see that regardless of all the changes that you experience because of the NICU, that the new version of you is worthy of getting to know. Stay tuned for part 2!
About Trisha Stibbe:
Trisha Stibbe was born and raised in Fargo. After marrying her high school sweetheart they moved to Omaha, NE where they spent the next decade. Finally back in their hometown, Trisha and her husband Adam are raising four kids with big personalities. Twins Sam and Jack were born in 2010 at 28 weeks, thrusting Trisha and her husband into the world of special needs parenting. A few years later, in 2012, Adam and Trisha welcomed son Eli. Not content with stopping when things seemed easy, they welcomed daughter Claire into their family in 2015. Claire was a surprise for many reasons, but the biggest of all came at her birth when they were told she had Down Syndrome and a heart defect. Trisha recently launched Inclusion, Ink - an information portal dedicated to making advocating easier. She spends most of her “free time” advocating for special needs and inclusion, going to various and plentiful doctors appointments, acting on the Board of Managers of GiGi’s Playhouses, and meeting her caffeine limit by about 9:00 a.m. every day. She deals with her crazy life best with sarcasm and has found a creative outlet through her blog. You can follow her on Instagram @tstibbe and @inclusionink
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! In honor of Father's Day soon approaching, we want to celebrate the NICU dads and partners in your life! We asked our community to share a time, inside or outside the NICU, when they felt deeply supported by their partner and/or when their partners showed remarkable courage as a NICU parent.
We also want to acknowledge that this topic may be sensitive for those whose partners were not present or available during their NICU stays. Please know that this community recognizes and honors the strength of your parenting journey.
To all of the NICU dads, know that we honor you this Father’s Day and appreciate you more than you know!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week's podcast episode, we have part one of team member Carrie’s journey with her daughter Hattie! Carrie is a full-term NICU mom to Hattie who spent 19 days in the NICU. Throughout Carrie’s pregnancy, Carrie worked alongside a doula and took hypnobirthing classes with the hope of having an all-natural birth. However once at the hospital, it was discovered that Hattie was breech and Carrie was leaking fluid, and an emergency c-section was ordered.
5 hours after Hattie was born, Hattie was transferred to the NICU for additional breathing support. After a handful of unsuccessful attempts at trialing room air in the NICU, Hattie’s care team ordered additional testing at 2 weeks old and she was diagnosed with a coarctation of the aorta, aortic and mitral valve stenosis, and left ventricular hypertrabeculation/ non-compaction.
For Hattie, this diagnosis means she is continually monitored by cardiology and will likely require a few repairs to her aortic arch to continue living a healthy life. Hattie turns 3 in July and despite her diagnosis is a thriving, active, and wildly fun toddler and big sister!
Our hope is that full-term NICU mamas in our sisterhood feel validated and are reminded that your story is significant and worthy of recognition. And to the NICU mothers who are wrestling with what their bodies could or couldn’t do in birth, we hope this episode reminds you that your body did not fail.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month! And this week’s podcast episode is a special roundtable episode all about mental health with co-hosts Ashley and Aisha, and team members Lexxa + Kamille! Throughout this episode they each share vulnerably about their own mental health journeys both in and out of the NICU, and how they have continued to prioritize their mental health throughout each motherhood season.
We hope this episode is a gentle reminder that healing is a lifelong journey. No matter where you are on your mental health journey, we hope you know how loved and valuable you are. This sisterhood heals with you!
For the PSI Help Line, head here. For the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, dial 988 or head here.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s not uncommon for NICU mothers to experience a traumatic birth, and therefore also process the grief that comes after our births don’t go the way we had always dreamed. We wanted to have a conversation with an expert who specializes in healing after birth trauma, and we are honored to have Kayleigh Summers of The Birth Trauma Mama as our guest today!
In this episode we cover:
- What is the definition of birth trauma?
- What does lifelong healing look like after birth trauma and where can we begin?
We hope this conversation affirms that NICU mama, healing is lifelong. No matter where you are on your healing journey after a traumatic birth, know that this sisterhood and resources like The Birth Trauma Mama exist to support you along the way.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Kayleigh Summers is a licensed therapist, writer, and content expert in perinatal trauma. She uses her training as a licensed therapist and her lived experience as an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor to support families experiencing perinatal trauma. Kayleigh has also created thriving support communities through Instagram and Tik Tok, as well as her podcast, where she provides connection, story sharing, and resources to support those experiencing birth and other trauma. You can find her @thebirthtrauma_mama.
To get connected with Kayleigh:
Website | Instagram | TikTok
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Happy Mother’s Day, NICU mama! We know for many of us, holidays like Mother’s Day can be tender - especially if you are celebrating in the NICU. This week’s episode is a mini episode where co-hosts Aisha and Ashley and members of our sisterhood share how they celebrate and have celebrated Mother’s Day! We hope this episode is a reminder to celebrate in a way that honors your heat.
This episode’s prompt was, “Tell us how you celebrate Mother’s Day. Whether you celebrated your first Mother’s Day in the NICU or How you continue to celebrate at home we want to hear the ways you honor your journey!”
Know that we are honoring and celebrating you this Mother’s Day, NICU mama. You are deeply loved.
To subscribe to our "A Letter a Day" subscription through Mother's Day, head here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On today’s episode of the Dear NICU Mama podcast we have the very special privilege to talk with NICU mama and NICU nurse, Kerrie! Kerrie’s daughter Kate was born prematurely at 25 weeks gestation due to an abruption and fetal distress. She spent three months in the NICU before coming home to meet her brother and sisters, and she is now three and thriving!
Kerrie has been a registered nurse for over 15 years working mostly in a hospital setting caring for the adult population. Her NICU journey gave her a whole new respect for being a patient and the feelings of helplessness experienced while in the hospital, and was the motivation for her to become a NICU nurse. Kerrie has been a NICU nurse for over two years and has had the privilege to work alongside the very team that saved her daughter's life. She is currently working toward becoming a Nurse Practitioner with a dream of focusing on developmental growth and early intervention for our vulnerable NICU babies!
Throughout this episode, Kerrie talks about the unique experience she has to provide care as a NICU nurse, encouragement for NICU mamas that are building trust with their baby’s medical team, and the importance of valuing your mental health both in and out of the NICU.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April is C-Section Awareness Month! And this week’s podcast episode Part 2 of a special roundtable episode all about c-sections with co-hosts Ashley and Aisha, and team members Lindsay + Kristen! Throughout this episode they each share more about their healing journey post delivery both emotionally and physically, and what they wish others knew about c-sections.
We hope these episodes have been validating and hope-filled for the c-section mamas in our sisterhood, and that you would be reminded that healing is a lifelong journey. We honor you and your remarkable birth story!
To listen to part 1, head here. For the episode transcription, head here. (Please note that it is computer generated and not perfect!)
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
April is C-Section Awareness Month! And this week’s podcast episode is a special roundtable episode all about c-sections with co-hosts Ashley and Aisha, and team members Lindsay + Kristen! Throughout this episode they each share openly about their own c-section deliveries, what they knew about c-sections prior to their deliveries, and how they have processed their birth plan not going to plan. The best part? This is only part 1 meaning we get to hear part 2 next week!
We hope any c-section NICU mamas feel validated and seen throughout this episode, and that you are reminded that your body did not fail.
For the episode transcription, head here. (Please note that it is computer generated and not perfect!)
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It’s time for another Mamas Call In episode! The topic of developmental milestones, and when and if our NICU grads reach those milestones, can be a very tender subject. On one hand, we are so PROUD of the milestones our children are reaching, and on the other, we can feel exhausted by the amount of charts and graphs that are continually tracking and telling us where our kids should be. This duality of emotion inspired Ashley to write and create the “Right On Time” poem and merchandise collection, and we thought it would be beautiful to hear stories from mamas of this sisterhood of when their NICU miracles were right on time.
This episode’s prompt was, “Tell us a story that your NICU miracle was right on time.”
It was an honor to share responses from this community, and know that this sisterhood celebrates ALL of the milestones your miracles are reaching. You are not alone!
To listen, you can find us on iTunes or Spotify, Google, or by clicking the link below!
For the episode transcription, head here. (Please note that it is computer generated and not perfect!)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is a replay episode from season 6 of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! For the NICU mamas in our sisterhood who find themselves splitting time between their children at home and children in the NICU, we hope you feel seen and heard by this episode.
Use code “nicumama” for 50% off Katie’s How to prepare, support and respond to your child during shots course! Find the episode transcription here.
This week, we have the privilege of speaking with Katie Taylor from Child Life On Call! One of the most commonly asked questions in our support forum is how to not only balance being a mom to kids at home and in the NICU, but also how to include their older kids with their new sibling’s NICU journey in a way that feels safe and easy to comprehend. And we couldn’t think of a better guests to talk about this today than Katie!
In this episode we cover:
- What are some ways we can talk to our kids about their sibling being in the NICU without scaring or overwhelming them?
- What encouragement would you offer families that are struggling with splitting time between their kids at home and their child in the NICU?
- What are ways that parents can encourage and establish a bond between siblings while in the NICU?
- When possible, how can families prepare their older children to visit their new sibling in the NICU?
- How can they introduce the new baby into the family at home and reassure their older children of all the new changes, especially if their new sibling requires ongoing medical attention or care?
We hope this conversation affirms that NICU mama, you are the best mother to ALL of your children, and your love is and will always be more than enough. 💕
To get connected with Katie:
Website | Instagram| Facebook| Child Life On Call Podcast
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week's podcast episode, we have part two of team member Carolissa’s journey with her daughter Elizabeth! Elizabeth was born at 31 weeks and had a 56 day NICU stay. Throughout this episode, Carolissa shares openly about what it was like to split time in the NICU with Elizabeth and time with her older daughter Sophia at home, and what it was like to transition to life as a family of four at home.
To any other NICU mamas listening who split time with their baby(ies) in the NICU and older kiddos at home, we hope you are reminded that you and your love are enough. You are never alone!
To listen to the podcast episode with Child Life On Call mentioned in this episode, head here! Head here for the episode transcription.
The Dear NICU Mama Podcast is made possible by the generosity of this community. To give to the mission and movement of Dear NICU Mama, head to: dearnicumama.com/give!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week's podcast episode, we have part one of team member Carolissa’s journey with her daughter Elizabeth! Elizabeth was born at 31 weeks and had a 56 day NICU stay. Throughout this episode, Carolissa shares vulnerably about the rollercoaster of a ride her motherhood journey has been, including experiencing secondary infertility and the emotions that arise when things don’t go the way we hoped they would.
Our hope is that as you listen to this episode, you are reminded how powerful your mother’s intuition is and that you and your steadfast love are more than enough!
Read Carolissa’s DNM letter here! Head here for the episode transcription.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
The Dear NICU Mama Podcast is made possible by the generosity of this community. To give to the mission and movement of Dear NICU Mama, head to: dearnicumama.com/give!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As NICU families, birthdays often come with a variety of emotions. Joy for the life of our NICU miracles, and grief for their entrance into the world. It’s not uncommon to feel a variety of emotions on birthdays, and in an effort to explore this more we reached out to this sisterhood to share their experiences with navigating and processing birthdays!
This episode’s prompt was, “How have you processed and felt on your NICU baby’s birthdays? What words of hope would you offer another NICU mama before a birthday?”
It was an honor to share responses from this community. To the NICU mamas navigating and processing all of the emotions that come with your NICU baby’s birthday, we hope you feel validated and seen throughout this episode. You are not alone!
Head here for the episode transcription.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week's podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing DNM team member and podcast co-host Aisha’s NICU journey with her daughter Eva. Eva was born prematurely at 26 weeks at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020 and had an 82 day NICU stay. Eva is Aisha’s second preemie baby after losing her first, Enzo, earlier in 2018. Throughout the episode Aisha shares what it was like to have a pregnancy after loss, the miracle of watching your baby defy all odds, and the duality of emotions you feel through it all.
To the loss mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel heard throughout this episode. This sisterhood honors not only your children's resilience, but also yours.
To listen to part 1 of Aisha’s motherhood journey with her son Enzo, head here! Head here for the episode transcription.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week's podcast episode is the recording from our live podcast event hosted by Thrivent for Giving Hearts Day! At this free event, members of our local community were able to order a coffee and hear Tyler + Carrie's NICU journey with their son Jett, and learn more about Dear NICU Mama and who we are as an organization. It was such a special way to kick off the week of Giving Hearts Day!
Because of your generosity and the generosity of our local community, Dear NICU Mama exceeded our goal and raised $22,409.81!!! We are SO grateful for your continued support and we cannot wait to see what is in store for 2024.
Thank you so much for listening and for being a part of this sisterhood!
For the episode transcription, head here.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Season 8 and Happy Valentine’s Day, beautiful mamas! We hope you are all having a cozy winter and that your 2024 is off to a wonderful start. We are so excited to be back on the podcast with you all and share a Mamas Call In episode! This week’s prompt was, “What is a fun date night you and your partner did in the NICU, or a fun memory you have with your partner in the NICU?”
We are excited to be kicking off another season of the podcast with you, and we can’t wait to share amazing expert interviews, round table discussions, and NICU motherhood stories with you throughout this season. Thank you to each and every one of you for being here with us and for making this sisterhood so special!
For the Instagram post mentioned in the episode, head here.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
For the episode transcription, head here. (Please note that it is computer generated and not perfect!)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today’s episode is very bittersweet as we say farewell to Season 7 of the Dear NICU Mama Podcast! We will never be able to fully express the honor and joy that it is to connect with each of you through this podcast and what it means to us to have you listen each and every week.
To those of you who are celebrating this holiday season, we wish you a very gentle holidays and a gentle beginning of 2024! Know that in your grief and in your joy, this sisterhood is with you. You are never ever alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As NICU mothers, our breastfeeding journeys often times look different than the ones we may have envisioned. It’s not uncommon to first be hooked up to a breast pump, and it can be days, weeks, or months before we have the chance to try feeding our babies at the breast. As we continue talking about feeding, we wanted to publish an episode for NICU mothers that long to pump or breastfeed, and we are so excited to have Bethany Hill, RN, IBCLC of Fargo Milk Market on the podcast today to share all about pumping and breastfeeding in and out of the NICU!
In this episode we cover:
- Why pumping consistently after delivery is delivery is important for milk production
- The importance of kangaroo care and prioritizing holding your baby when you and your baby are able to
- Gentle advice for a successful pumping journey and for transitioning from the pump to the breast
- Permission to wean or stop pumping and breastfeeding if your mental health is suffering
We hope any NICU mother navigating the journey of breastfeeding feels encouraged throughout this episode. At the end of the day, you are enough and fed is best. You are not alone!
About Bethany Hill, RN:
Bethany Hill is an RN, IBCLC. Bethany has spent her career working in the hospital setting as a Registered Nurse. She has worked as a NICU RN for 7 years and another 8 years specializing in lactation in the NICU. She recently founded the Milk Market in Fargo, ND. With plenty of product available at big box stores and online, the piece that was missing was someone to educate on the product prior to purchase. So, the Milk Market was born. A comprehensive one stop retail store with educated staff to help you purchase items to help you in your feeding journey.
Bethany resides in Hawley, MN with her husband and 3 daughters. With personal and professional experience in lactation Bethany is passionate in providing support to lactating parents in the Fargo-Moorhead and surrounding areas.
** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with Bethany + Fargo Milk Market:
Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Head here for the episode transcription.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As we approach the holiday season, we thought it would be timely to talk about feeding and eating! As NICU parents, we know that our child’s feeding journey begins in the NICU, but it certainly doesn’t end there. Which is why we are really grateful to have such a gentle and informative conversation with two special guests from the organization Feeding Matters, CEO Jaclyn Pederson and Director of Programs (and NICU mom herself!) Jen Lambert!
In this episode we cover:
- What is a Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD)
- What types of interventions can be done for PFDs and how would parents begin the process of being evaluated
- How parents can advocate and support their child who has been given a failure to thrive diagnosis
- Gentle advice for moms of NICU grads who are navigating feeding struggles
- How to find or work with an existing support team are team that supports parents and their child on their feeding journey
- How to prepare both you and your NICU grad for discussions around the holiday surrounding food and eating
- Feeding Matters Resources: Website | Feeding Matters Infant and Child Feeding Questionnaire© | Power of Two Parent Mentor Program PFD Alliance App | Provider Directory | Roadmap for Family Support
We hope any NICU parent navigating their child’s feeding journey feels validated and empowered throughout this episode. You are not alone!
About Feeding Matters:
Established in 2006, Feeding Matters is the first organization in the world uniting the concerns of families with the field’s leading advocates, experts, and allied healthcare professionals to improve the system of care for pediatric feeding disorder through advocacy, education, support, and research. Learn more about Jen + Jaclyn by heading here!
** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Head here for the episode transcription.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's spooky season! And this week we are sharing a replay of an amazing episode we had the pleasure of recording with Natalie Reiter of Prairieland Counseling back in season 5 all about "spooky" or intrusive thoughts.
In this episode we cover:
- What are intrusive thoughts and how can we identify them?
- What are common intrusive thoughts that NICU parents might experience?
- What are some practical things NICU moms can do when intrusive thoughts are becoming more frequent and/or more consuming?
- Am I a bad mom if I experience intrusive or spooky thoughts?
We hope this episode reminds all NICU mamas listening that no matter the thoughts you may find yourself experiencing, that you are and always will be the best mother for your baby. You are not alone!
For the book “Dropping the Baby and Other Scary Thoughts: Breaking the Cycle of Unwanted Thoughts in Motherhood” mentioned in the episode, head here, and for the book “Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts”, head here!
Head here for the episode transcription.
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As NICU parents, we are trained to track milestones and be hypervigilant about our child’s development. And as we enroll our NICU grads in school, it can feel vulnerable to trust other individuals to be as vigilant as we are! Which is why we are really excited to have an in-depth conversation with Catherine Whitcher, M.Ed of Master IEP Coach about Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and how to partner with our child’s teachers and education professionals.
In this episode we cover:
- The basics of an IEP and why they are important
- Early signs or signals that parents of NICU graduates can be on the lookout for, which might suggest their child could benefit from having an IEP
- Tips on how parents can communicate effectively with schools and advocate for their child's needs
- Common challenges or misconceptions that parents often face when it comes to IEPs, and how can they overcome these obstacles
- Encouragement for NICU families who might be navigating the world of IEPs for the first time
We hope any NICU parent feeling overwhelmed about navigating the educational system feels empowered and encouraged throughout this episode. You can do this!
Head here for the episode transcription.
About Catherine Whitcher M.Ed and Master IEP Coach
Catherine Whitcher, MEd, founder and CEO of Master IEP Coach®, experienced the struggles of the Special Education system both as a certified teacher and as a sister to a wonderful man with Down syndrome. For the past 25 years, she has been creating nationwide change in special education by assisting parents and teachers in developing IEPs that work in the real world. Catherine currently leads the largest independent organization nationwide of parents and teachers working together to build better special education outcomes for the real world. She’s an expert in conflict resolution and leadership at the IEP table while always keeping the focus on preparing every child for further education, employment, and independent living.
** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Master IEP Resources:
Website | Podcast | Email
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Head here for the episode transcription.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Happy Thursday, beautiful sisterhood! If you are a frequent listener of the DNM Podcast, you may have noticed that we are a day late in posting this week’s podcast episode due to technical issues. BUT we are just as excited to share this week’s mini episode with you all today!
In September we launched our “There is Goodness Ahead” collection. And on today’s podcast episode, Ashley shares a bit about the meaning and hope for this new collection, as well as a fun podcast exclusive shop discount code! We also have two letters read aloud from Allie and Danielle, and we hope these letters provide hope and encouragement to you today. Read Allie’s letter here, and Daniell’s letter here!
Thank you to each and every one of you for being a special part of this community! We are so grateful for each of you.
Head here for the episode transcription.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week’s podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing DNM team member Jess’ NICU journey with her twin boys, Jamie + Morgan! Jess was admitted to the hospital at 30 weeks and 2 days due to preterm premature rupture of the membrane (PPROM). After 2 days in the hospital, Jess went into a very quick labor and delivered her boys via an emergency c- section. Jamie was discharged after 41 days, and Morgan was discharged after 60 days. Throughout the episode Jess shares openly her high-risk pregnancy and her boy’s early delivery, what it was like to journey through the NICU during the Covid pandemic, and how her boys are thriving today.
To twin and multiples mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel heard throughout this episode. This sisterhood honors not only your children’s resilience, but also yours NICU mama.
Head here for the episode transcription.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is all about fevers and illness after NICU! (Cue the tears.) As we enter into what is formally known as cold and flu season, we wanted to have a conversation with a pediatrician who can help us understand some truths and misconceptions about illness. We are so excited to have this conversation with Dr. Jess Daigle of Mom & Me MD! Not only is Dr. Jess a board certified pediatrician, but she is also a NICU mom herself and comes to this conversation with empathy for NICU families that find themselves dreading this time of year.
In this episode we cover:
- Information that can empower NICU parents to feel more confident to navigate the top common illnesses
- How to “think like a doctor” when it comes to illness and communicating your child’s symptoms to your pediatrician
- The basics of fevers and what is considered safe and when we should seek out additional care
- Encouragement for parents trying to strike a balance between engaging in the world, outings, social activities, etc. AND feeling like they are doing whatever they can to protect their kids
- How to combat mom guilt when our kids to get sick
We hope any NICU parent feeling overwhelmed or anxious about cold and flu season find hope and practical wisdom throughout this episode. You can do this!
About Dr. Jess:
Dr. Jess Daigle is a board-certified pediatrician, neonatal/pediatric hospitalist, and the Founder/CEO of Mom & Me LLC. She offers life coaching for NICU moms to help them navigate their NICU journey and be the confident mom they want to be. She also has a concierge medical practice in Atlanta, GA that provides in-home/virtual care services to newborns (with focus on NICU babies) and support for their mothers to make the transition home easier and less overwhelming. She is a wife and the proud mother of 2 kids both born prematurely, with 1 staying in the NICU for 5 weeks. She believes moms and their babies should thrive, not just survive on their postpartum journey and onward. She can be found on IG at @momandme_md.
** This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is a special back to school roundtable episode with co-hosts Martha and Ashley, and team members Kendra and Sara! Throughout this episode we hear about their own personal experiences of sending their kids to school, how they advocate for their kids alongside the school system, and some of the triumphs and challenges they’ve experienced along the way.
We hope any NICU mothers that find themselves sending their NICU grads to school, or who have anxiety about sending their kids to school, hear this episode and feel seen, heard, and reminded that you can do this and your kids will thrive!
For episode transcription, head here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to season 7, beautiful mamas! We hope you all had a wonderful summer and that your fall is off to a great start. We are so excited to be back on the podcast with you all, and we can’t believe we are officially kicking off another season of the podcast with you! We can’t wait to share amazing expert interviews, round table discussions, and NICU motherhood stories with you throughout this season. Thank you to each and every one of you for being here with us and for making this sisterhood so special!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
For the episode transcription, head here. (Please note that it is computer generated and not perfect!)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Walking Letter of Hope Day is only two days away! On July 19th, you have the power to make a difference and show your support for Dear NICU Mama in several meaningful ways:
- Wear your Walking Letter of Hope apparel: On July 19th, proudly wear your Walking Letter of Hope apparel from Dear NICU Mama. By doing so, you raise awareness for the organization and highlight the invaluable support this community provides.
- Share your story: Your personal story has the potential to bring hope to others. Take a moment to share your experience with your network, inspiring and encouraging other mamas who may be navigating the NICU journey. Your testimonial can be life-changing for those in need.
- Give to Dear NICU Mama: Donations play a vital role in advancing the mission of Dear NICU Mama and creating a strong support network for families. Consider making a contribution as an individual or form a fundraising team with your family and friends. As a bonus, top fundraisers will compete for exclusive DNM prize packages!
- Join the walk: Gather your loved ones for an informal 1-mile walk of hope around your favorite neighborhoods, parks, or trails. Don't forget to sport your Walking Letter of Hope Day gear, capture memorable moments through photos, and share them on social media using the hashtag #walkingletterofhopeday. By participating, you'll also have a chance to win exciting prizes on the event day!
Walking Letter of Hope Day is an opportunity to unite as a community and make a positive impact in the lives of NICU mothers and their families. Together, we can spread hope, raise awareness, and support this incredible cause.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Today’s episode is very bittersweet as we say farewell to Season 6 of the Dear NICU Mama Podcast! It has been such a gift to have vulnerable and meaningful conversations with NICU moms and specialists about growing our families after the NICU, and we hope that you have felt heard and seen throughout this season. We know that this subject can be a tender one, and we want to make sure to acknowledge the courage it takes to engage and participate in conversations like these. No matter where you find yourself on your family building journey, know that this sisterhood walks with you!
It has been a remarkable season 6 and we cannot wait to connect with you all for season 7 in the fall. Words can’t fully express our gratitude to each and every one of YOU for tuning in and being here with us week after week. We love you all and hope you have a fun and wonderful summer!
To give to the mission and movement of Dear NICU Mama, and/or to schedule a recurring monthly or annual gift, head to dearnicumama.com/give!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As we near the end of season 6, which has been all about growing and building our families after the NICU, we wanted to make sure to dedicate an episode to the foster and adoptive NICU mamas in our community. Which is why we are so grateful to have NICU mom and NICU nurse, Sarah joining us on the podcast today!
Throughout this episode, Sarah shares openly and honestly about her family’s journey to becoming foster parents, what it was like to become a NICU mom while being a NICU nurse, the life and death of her daughter Zariah, and how her family has continued to foster and grow their family today.
To the foster and adoptive NICU mamas in this sisterhood, we hope your motherhood journey feels honored. We are so proud of the mothers that you are and are so honored and grateful to have your stories and experiences a part of this community!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
In honor of Mother’s Day, this week’s podcast episode is a special episode where DNM team members read out-loud letters that they have written for this community. This Mother’s Day, our hope is that you offer yourself the grace and permission to feel the duality of both grief and joy of longing and gratitude. Whether you are celebrating in or out of the NICU, with full or empty arms, or with a close few or a large group, we hope you know how remarkable of a mother that you are.
Happy Mother’s Day, NICU Mama. This sisterhood is so incredibly proud of you.
To learn more about Prolacta mentioned in this episode, head here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Happy World Maternal Mental Health Day to this wonderful sisterhood and NICU mama community! This week we have the honor of welcoming back Dr. Frankie Harrison of Miracle Moon to talk all about the basics of maternal mental health.
In this episode we cover:
- What is maternal mental health?
- How does the practice of a maternal mental health therapist differ from a traditional practicing therapist? Why is this important to consider when finding a provider postpartum?
- How long is the “postpartum window”?
- What is “normal” postpartum, and what are some signs that a mom may need additional support?
- For NICU moms, sometimes the postpartum period feels that it extends far beyond a typical postpartum window. What encouragement would you offer NICU moms who have significant distance from their birth experiences, but still don’t feel quite like themselves?
No matter where you are in your postpartum healing journey, know that your experience is valid and you are worthy and deserving of support. This sisterhood heals with you!
Dr Frankie Harrison is a clinical psychologist who specializes in supporting parents through their NICU journeys and beyond. Frankie is also a NICU mama herself, she had her first baby at 31+1 due to pre-eclampsia, so knows first-hand the impact NICU can have on your wellbeing. She runs an online community called miraclemoonuk where she shares psychological knowledge for people to normalize and validate people’s experiences. She also runs a private practice where she helps people individually and runs courses to make psychological support accessible.
To get connected with Frankie
Website | Instagram| Facebook | Miracle Moon Podcast
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To learn more about Prolacta mentioned in this episode, head here!
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As we continue season 6 which is all about growing our families after the NICU, we want to make sure to also honor the NICU mamas in our sisterhood who are no longer able to carry children due to an emergent or elected hysterectomy. And we are so grateful for twin NICU mama Leah for sharing about her personal experience. After an emergency c-section, Leah’s twins were born at 32 weeks 2 days gestation, and were then transported to a level 3 NICU 30 miles away. Nearly 18 hours after birth they discovered that there was fluid in her abdomen, and an exploratory surgery then became a full hysterectomy. Throughout this episode, Leah shares openly about her unexpected hysterectomy, how she has healed and received support throughout her healing journey, and how she honors and celebrates her body as a woman today.
To the mamas in our community who have had hysterectomies, we hope this podcast episode is a gentle reminder that your worth as a woman is not determined by the existence of a womb. This sisterhood honors you as the remarkable woman and mother that you are! You are not alone.
Project NICU offers connection, support and community to all involved in the NICU Journey. From NICU Care Packages, Peer Support, Graduate Programming, events and more we are here for every step of the journey. Led by NICU Parents, our programs are designed with first hand experience with support by NICU medical professionals on our advisory board to truly create an environment where families and NICU Teams can feel supported.
To get connected with Project NICU: Website
To learn more about Prolacta: Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
As we continue our season of growing our families after the NICU, we want to make sure to also honor the NICU mamas in our sisterhood who have grown their families via pregnancy after loss. Throughout this episode, Martha and Aisha share about the mountains and valleys of their healing journeys, what support felt most meaningful to them in pregnancy, and encouragement they have for other loss mamas who are pregnant now or hope to be pregnant again.
To the loss mamas in our community, we hope this podcast episode is a gentle reminder that you are not alone in your healing journey. This sisterhood is here to not only support you, but also to honor and celebrate the miraculous lives of your Angel babies and your miraculous children here on Earth.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This week’s podcast episode is a roundtable episode with two of our editorial team members, Keely and Savannah! And this week we are talking all about navigating and announcing pregnancy announcements on social media after the NICU.
Depending on where you are in your healing journey, social media can sometimes be a joyful and wonderful place to engage, and other times it can invoke feelings of jealousy or longing for the experiences of motherhood that you may have always envisioned. Throughout this episode, they each share not only how they use and process social media in new ways after their NICU journeys and in different seasons of their healing, but also how they use social media in a compassionate way today. We hope that this episode gives you permission to honor your heart and what it is capable of holding in this season of your life!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This week’s podcast episode is a replay episode from season 2 of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we further our conversation of growing our families after the NICU, we wanted to make sure to re-share this episode as it contains not only invaluable information about high-risk pregnancy after NICU, but also because Dr. Stefanie is a NICU mama herself. For those who find themselves pregnant after the NICU or are considering this journey for their family, we hope you feel seen and heard by this episode.
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For NICU mothers considering having more of their own children, it's not uncommon to wonder, "Will this all happen again?" "Is there anything I can do differently?" And while we do not have a crystal ball to predict the future, we can step away from our google searches and sit down with trusted medical professionals to ask the good and sometimes hard questions.
For this week's episode, we had the opportunity to have a conversation with high-risk pregnancy expert, Dr. Stefanie Gefroh Ellison, regarding high-risk pregnancy and pregnancy after NICU. Being a NICU mama herself, she responded to each question with equal parts empathy and equal parts sound medical wisdom. Her responses are meant to be used as a starting point of conversation to have with your OB or trusted physician!
In this episode we cover:
- What qualifies a pregnancy to be “high risk”?
- If I had a NICU stay in a previous pregnancy, will it happen again?
- What questions can I ask my medical provider to better prepare as we grow our family?
- What role do statistics play in determining the journey of a future pregnancy?
We hope that this episode offers some sound wisdom and encouragement on all things regrading pregnancy after NICU. Your questions are valid!
Dr. Stefanie Gefroh Ellison earned her medical degree at University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences in Grand Forks, ND. Dr. Gefroh Ellison completed her obstetrics and gynecology residency at Oakwood Dearborn Medical Park in Dearborn, MI and is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Dr. Gefroh Ellison has been a provider at Essentia Health since 2004. In addition to her OB/GYN practice, Dr. Gefroh Ellison is Division Chair for Inpatient, Specialty Services, and Women’s and Children’s Services at Essentia Health-West. A NICU mama of 3-year old twins, Dr. Gefroh Ellison has both professional and personal involvement in high risk pregnancy and NICU care. In her free time, Dr. Gefroh Ellison loves being with her husband and kids. Together, they love cooking, traveling and being at the lake in the summer.
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To get connected with Essentia Health Gynecology:
Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is Part 2 of Kamille’s motherhood journey and pregnancy with her son, Luuk! Two days before her first son Owen’s birthday, Kamille found out she was pregnancy with Luuk. Throughout this episode she shares vulnerably about what it was like to be pregnant again after the NICU, how she relied on her support system and prioritized her mental health throughout her pregnancy and postpartum period, and how she honors both of her boys’ stories and entrances into the world today.
No matter where you are on your family building journey, know that this sisterhood is with you.
To listen to Kamille’s part 1, head here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This week’s podcast episode is Part 1 of Kamille’s motherhood journey with her son, Owen! At 20 weeks, Owen was diagnosed with CDH. Throughout her pregnancy, she was closely monitored until his arrival at 38 weeks. Four days after delivery, Owen underwent surgery to repair his diaphragm and move his stomach and intestines out his chest, and he spent a total of 23 days in the NICU! Owen is a thriving 3 year old and big brother to Luuk, who we will get to hear more about in part 2.
Our hope is that the mamas in our community who are either coming to terms with a new diagnosis or navigating a high-risk pregnancy would feel seen, heard, and validated through that episode. You are never ever alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This week, we have the privilege of speaking with Katie Taylor from Child Life On Call! One of the most commonly asked questions in our support forum is how to not only balance being a mom to kids at home and in the NICU, but also how to include their older kids with their new sibling’s NICU journey in a way that feels safe and easy to comprehend. And we couldn’t think of a better guests to talk about this today than Katie!
In this episode we cover:
- What are some ways we can talk to our kids about their sibling being in the NICU without scaring or overwhelming them?
- What encouragement would you offer families that are struggling with splitting time between their kids at home and their child in the NICU?
- What are ways that parents can encourage and establish a bond between siblings while in the NICU?
- When possible, how can families prepare their older children to visit their new sibling in the NICU?
- How can they introduce the new baby into the family at home and reassure their older children of all the new changes, especially if their new sibling requires ongoing medical attention or care?
We hope this conversation affirms that NICU mama, you are the best mother to ALL of your children, and your love is and will always be more than enough. 💕
Katie Taylor is a certified child life specialist, podcast host and CEO + Founder Child Life On Call. With the expertise of a child life specialist and the heart of a momma, Katie's passion is supporting parents, kids and the care team with the tools they deserve so they can transform from overwhelmed to empowered during medical experiences. With over a decade of in-hospital experience, Katie has helped hundreds of families cope with and navigate challenging life events.
Katie graduated from the Pennsylvania State University and has studied and worked at facilities like Children's National Medical Center, Inova Children's Hospital, Dell Children's Medical Center and St. David's Children's Hospital. She authored her first children's book, Super Silly Wash Your Hands Dance, in early 2020 and has been featured in the media as a child development expert. When she's not doing all things Child Life On Call, she loves spending time in the great trails of the Hill Country with her husband and two children, listening to audiobooks and visiting local Austin breweries.
To get connected with Katie:
Website | Instagram| Facebook| Child Life On Call Podcast
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week’s podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing the miraculous NICU journey of Sully! Sully was born at 31 weeks during the height of the pandemic due to Paige developing severe preeclmapsia. While in the NICU, he developed NEC, which led to three surgeries, a G-tube, and a 131 day NICU stay. Sully is now two years old, G-tube free, and the happiest toddler in the world!
To the G-tube and medical mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel heard and celebrated throughout this episode. This sisterhood honors not only your child’s resilience, but also yours NICU mama.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This week, we are excited to release another roundtable episode! As we continue our theme of growing our families after NICU, we invited Ebony and Carrita back on the podcast as they are both expecting after loss and NICU stays.
Ebony and Carrita share their personal family building journeys, how they have savored each moment of their pregnancies, and words of encouragement they would offer other NICU mamas who find themselves pregnant after the NICU! They also share vulnerably about how they have advocated for perinatal and postpartum care as Black mothers and women.
Our hope is that if growing your family via pregnancy is something you desire, that you would feel empowered and equipped on your journey as you listen to this episode!
Ebony Ford is the CEO & founder of Miracle Mamas, a diversity and inclusion firm that provides consultations to organizations looking to aid in the maternal health crisis and provides resources to families of the premature, medically fragile, and disabled to ensure that their physical, socio-economic and emotional needs are met. She is a maternal health advocate, a National Ambassador for March of Dimes, a patient family partner for the Preeclampsia Foundation and serves on the Maryland Maternal Mortality Review Board. She survived a near-miss related to the birth of her first child caused by severe sudden-onset preeclampsia and Class I HELLP Syndrome resulting in pulmonary edema, multi-organ failure and requiring an emergency c-section, intubation, dialysis and admission to the ICU at just 26 weeks pregnant. Ebony now shares her story to raise awareness about prematurity, preeclampsia, HELLP Syndrome, birth trauma, the maternal health crisis as well as the need for self-advocacy, doula or midwifery services for those most affected by the maternal health crisis.
Connect with Ebony:
Caritta is a young woman who exudes strength and grace. She can also be described as a true victor and an example to many women. Carita is an angel mom time three. After experiencing her first two losses, she was led by God to begin sharing her story publicly. Her motivation for sharing this journey was to remind other women that they were not alone. She also wanted to make it known that child loss and infertility did not only happen to certain groups of women. Anyone could find themselves in this seat. Most recently Carrita has created Love Always, Carrita. This was created to shine a light on the healing abilities of writing. Carrita began writing and published her first in 2019. Carrita found writing to be therapeutic and healing for her and began encouraging others to write daily as well, even if it is a simple journal entry. Writing heals. Carrita is a published author, NICU advocate, and inspirational speaker and overall supporter of women.
Connect with Carrita:
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is a replay from a former season of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we continue our conversation of growing our families after the NICU, we couldn’t think of a more valuable series of episodes to share than our Sex & Intimacy after NICU and/or Birth Trauma series. We know that connecting with our bodies after the NICU is a lifelong healing journey, especially when it comes to connecting to our partners physically, but we hope that this episodes offers your heart some practical and tangible steps to finding peace in your body post trauma.
Welcome to part 2 of our sex after birth and/or NICU trauma series! On this week's episode we talk exclusively about the physical aspects of healing after trauma with physical therapist Jill Ehrmantraut of Apex Wellness!
In this episode we cover:
- What is the pelvic floor?
- Is pain during sex normal? If not, what can we do to treat it?
- What are the different changes physically that occur within the body with a vaginal delivery vs a cesarean delivery?
- When is too late to receive therapy from a physical therapist? (Hint - it’s never too late!)
- Where in our bodies do we hold trauma? Is an emotional response during therapy normal?
We hope this episodes offers insight into the physical aspects of healing after birth and/or NICU trauma. Your body has done so much to protect you, and unlocking therapies like physical therapy can be a wonderful asset in your healing journey.
Jill is a Board-Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS) with advanced training in pelvic rehabilitation for females, males and children. Jill graduated with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND in 2010. She has advanced training in the treatment of pelvic pain, pregnancy and post-partum issues, urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, and neurogenic bladder in women, men, and children. She also has years of experience in treating female pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor dysfunction during or after cancer treatment, pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction, and post prostatectomy incontinence in males. She is the second physical therapist in the state of North Dakota to obtain a Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy. Jill is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and a part of the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. She is also certified in Functional Dry Needling Level 1 and Pelvic Floor dry needling/Level 2.
To get connected with Jill:
Website | Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is a replay from a former season of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we continue our conversation of growing our families after the NICU and approach the Valentine’s Day holiday, we couldn’t think of a more valuable series of episodes to share than our Sex & Intimacy after NICU and/or Birth Trauma series. We know this conversation can be a tender one, but we hope that these episodes leave you feeling encouraged and empowered as you reconnect with your partner post trauma.
Yep, you read the title of this episode right! On this week's episode, we are talking about sex. Specifically sex after NICU and/or birth trauma. And we couldn't think of a more compassionate voice to chat about this with than the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling.
It's no secret that so many things shift and change in our bodies both physically and emotionally postpartum. Add on a traumatic birth and/or traumatic NICU stay, and your feelings and desires for and about sex may have changed drastically. But you are not alone in those feelings mama, in fact it's very normal!
In this episode we cover:
- What changes emotionally in our bodies postpartum?
- Is it normal to not want to have sex anymore, and is there anything we can do to desire to have sex again?
- How can we be present in sex without worrying or fearing a potential pregnancy?
- How can we communicate our honest concerns with our partner?
- What are some practical ways we can connect with our partner that make sex enjoyable again?
We hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone and also gently reminds you that sex with your partner is designed to be pleasurable and fun. It may take time to heal and get there - but you can and you will.
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We have the honor and privilege of welcoming back Parijat Deshpande back to the Dear NICU mama Podcast! And today we have a gentle and trauma informed discussion about high-risk pregnancy after NICU.
In this episode we cover:
- How do we know if we are ready for another pregnancy? What questions can help couples answer this for themselves?
- What does it mean to have a high-risk pregnancy?
- Will stress and anxiety during pregnancy cause a mother to go into early labor?
- Is it possible to have a more “normal” pregnancy?
- How do we listen to our bodies while at the same time exploring our options when it comes to growing our families after NICU?
We hope this episode reminds you that no matter where you are on your family building journey, that you are worthy of the time and space it takes to heal and honor your heart. You are never alone.
Parijat Deshpande is author, speaker, and the CEO of a global, boutique company dedicated to reducing pregnancy complications and ending preterm birth. They do this through concierge level private client services focused on trauma-informed, neurobiological approaches to reproductive health. Parijat and her team also offer trauma-sensitive professional trainings for providers and practitioners. They also partner with hospitals, clinics, and maternal health organization to add a missing piece to the puzzle of ending prematurity and improving pregnancy outcomes worldwide.
Parijat is the author of bestselling book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy. And she is the host of the popular podcast Delivering Miracles®️, that discusses the real, raw side of family-building including infertility, loss, high-risk pregnancy, bed rest, prematurity and healing once baby comes home.
To get connected with Parijat Deshpande:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Delivering Miracles® Podcast
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is a replay from a former season of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we continue our conversation of growing our families after the NICU, we wanted to make sure to re-share this episode as we know that many of us in this community find ourselves as one-and-done families. We hope that this podcast episode affirms the NICU mamas in our sisterhood that have decided or are making the decision to be a “one and done” family that your family building journey is celebrated and honored. At the end of the day you know what is best for your family and that is enough.
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For many NICU mothers, the decision on how and if to grow their family after NICU or birth trauma can be complex. And for some, the decision on whether or not they are able to grow their family via pregnancy was made for them due to emergency medical procedures or interventions. This decision can feel additionally complex when questions such as “When are you going to give your child a sibling?” arise in daily conversation, and outdated social assumptions made about only children still exist. But because of the work of communities like “Only You Podcast”, these social norms are changing!
In this episode, Jess shares about her own preeclampsia journey, her daughter’s PICU and medically complex journey, and how her and her husband decided together to be a “one and done” family. She also debunks many of the myths and misconceptions surrounding having an only child and hint - they thrive!
About Jess: Pre-eclampsia survivor, NICU mama, co-host of Only You: A One and Done Podcast and mother of a two year old. Advocate for one child families and empowering parents with the right to choose.
To get connected with Jess:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To purchase and send a virtual Valentine’s telegram, head here!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On today’s podcast episode, we have a roundtable discussion about growing our families after NICU! Co-hosts Martha and Ashley and team members Sara and Kendra take turns sharing about their own personal journeys to either deciding to be done carrying children, their journey to becoming pregnant again, or how they currently find themselves in the middle of the decision making process.
No matter where you find yourself in your family building journey, or if the decision of growing your family has been taken away from you, know that you are not alone and there is a sisterhood here who understands these tender and complex feelings.
To purchase and send a virtual Valentine’s telegram, head to: https://www.dearnicumama.com/shop/virtual-valentines-telegram!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Welcome back, beautiful mamas! We hope you were all able to find moments of joy during the holiday season and that your start to 2023 has been wonderful. We are kicking off season six with co-hosts Martha & Ashley reflecting on their break, as well as previewing this season's theme: Growing Your Family After NICU!
We are so excited to launch this new season and share some remarkable NICU journeys, roundtables, and conversations with specialists. Thank you for being a part of this sisterhood!
To purchase and send a virtual Valentine’s telegram, head to: https://www.dearnicumama.com/shop/virtual-valentines-telegram!
This week’s podcast episode is a special one! Not only is this week’s episode the final episode of season 5, but it’s also a “Mamas Call In” episode! We asked this sisterhood, “NICU mama, who is someone during your NICU stay that became like family? What moment with them do you remember the most?”, and the responses were absolutely beautiful.
It has been an amazing season 5 and we cannot wait to connect with you all for season 6 in January. Words can’t fully express our gratitude to the specialists and NICU Mothers that share so vulnerably on this podcast, and also to each of YOU for tuning in and being here with us week after week. Thank you for being a part of this community. We love you all and hope you have a safe and gentle holiday season!
Cold and flu season, pandemic, RSV oh my! On this week’s episode, we are sharing a replay of an episode we recorded in season 4 where we had the opportunity to sit down with a very well-known and respected pediatrician in the Fargo Moorhead area, Dr. Stephanie Hanson with Sanford Health. Dr. Hanson has 11 years of pediatric experience, and in her practice has seen many NICU grads come through her clinic. Cold and flu season is a scary topic for any new mother, but for many NICU mothers there is an added element of fear as their babies may have compromised immune systems. Add on the pandemic, and this time of year can be very anxiety inducing. So today we wanted to take the opportunity to share some practical information regarding cold and flu season from a licensed and experienced medical professional!
Throughout the episode, we talk about:
- Why is cold and flu season picking up so early this year?
- What are some basic practices a NICU mom can do to protect her child’s immune system during cold and flu season?
- What can our response be when well-meaning friends and family say things like “Don’t live in fear… they have to build their immune system sometime!”
- Words of encouragement for NICU families who are sending their kids to daycare and school
We hope that this episode eases some of your fears, gets you away from those midnight google searches, and reminds you that you are your baby’s best advocate. You can do this mama!
To get connected with Sanford Health: www.sanfordhealth.org
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Cold and flu season, pandemic, RSV oh my! On this week’s episode, we are sharing a replay of an episode we recorded in season 4 where we had the opportunity to sit down with a very well-known and respected pediatrician in the Fargo Moorhead area, Dr. Stephanie Hanson with Sanford Health. Dr. Hanson has 11 years of pediatric experience, and in her practice has seen many NICU grads come through her clinic. Cold and flu season is a scary topic for any new mother, but for many NICU mothers there is an added element of fear as their babies may have compromised immune systems. Add on the pandemic, and this time of year can be very anxiety inducing. So today we wanted to take the opportunity to share some practical information regarding cold and flu season from a licensed and experienced medical professional!
Throughout the episode, we talk about:
- Why is cold and flu season picking up so early this year?
- What are some basic practices a NICU mom can do to protect her child’s immune system during cold and flu season?
- What can our response be when well-meaning friends and family say things like “Don’t live in fear… they have to build their immune system sometime!”
- Words of encouragement for NICU families who are sending their kids to daycare and school
We hope that this episode eases some of your fears, gets you away from those midnight google searches, and reminds you that you are your baby’s best advocate. You can do this mama!
To get connected with Sanford Health: www.sanfordhealth.org
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's spooky season! And this week, we have the pleasure of welcoming back Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling to discuss the topic of "spooky" or intrusive thoughts.
In this episode we cover:
- What are intrusive thoughts and how can we identify them?
- What are common intrusive thoughts that NICU parents might experience?
- What are some practical things NICU moms can do when intrusive thoughts are becoming more frequent and/or more consuming?
- Am I a bad mom if I experience intrusive or spooky thoughts?
We hope this episode reminds all NICU mamas listening that no matter the thoughts you may find yourself experiencing, that you are and always will be the best mother for your baby. You are not alone!
For the book “Dropping the Baby and Other Scary Thoughts: Breaking the Cycle of Unwanted Thoughts in Motherhood” mentioned in the episode, head here, and for the book “Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts”, head here!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It's spooky season! And this week, we have the pleasure of welcoming back Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling to discuss the topic of "spooky" or intrusive thoughts.
In this episode we cover:
- What are intrusive thoughts and how can we identify them?
- What are common intrusive thoughts that NICU parents might experience?
- What are some practical things NICU moms can do when intrusive thoughts are becoming more frequent and/or more consuming?
- Am I a bad mom if I experience intrusive or spooky thoughts?
We hope this episode reminds all NICU mamas listening that no matter the thoughts you may find yourself experiencing, that you are and always will be the best mother for your baby. You are not alone!
For the book “Dropping the Baby and Other Scary Thoughts: Breaking the Cycle of Unwanted Thoughts in Motherhood” mentioned in the episode, head here, and for the book “Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts”, head here!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On this week’s podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing the miraculous NICU journey of Mateo! Throughout this episode, Mateo’s mom Paola shares about her high risk pregnancy and delivery, Mateo’s triumphs and setbacks during his 4 month NICU stay, and how Mateo is thriving as a four year old today with Kniest Syndrome.
To the medically complex NICU mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel seen and validated. No matter the diagnosis, this sisterhood honors your child’s resilience and your journey of lifelong healing!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
On this week’s podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing the miraculous NICU journey of Mateo! Throughout this episode, Mateo’s mom Paola shares about her high risk pregnancy and delivery, Mateo’s triumphs and setbacks during his 4 month NICU stay, and how Mateo is thriving as a four year old today with Kniest Syndrome.
To the medically complex NICU mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel seen and validated. No matter the diagnosis, this sisterhood honors your child’s resilience and your journey of lifelong healing!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
Join us for Dear NICU Mama's annual conference 'Courage Lives Here' on November 5th! This virtual conference is for both past and present NICU moms, birthing parents, and the providers that support them! Featuring Hilary Waller, MS, LPC, Director of Education and Programming/Psychotherapist at The Postpartum Stress Center, and Parijat Desphande, renowned high-risk pregnancy specialist, author, speaker, and NICU mama.
A HUGE thank you to our sponsors Gate City Bank, Sanford Health, Essentia Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, Angel Eye Care, and Johnson's for making it possible to offer our ticket price at a reduced rate of $65!
This special event will offer the opportunity to learn about trauma after the NICU, meet NICU mamas from around the world, and discover the courage inside of you in your journey of healing. For more information and to get your ticket today, head to www.dearnicumama.com/events!
Hilary Waller, MS, LPC, is a psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She is the director of education and programming at The Postpartum Stress Center outside of Philadelphia, which was founded by renowned perinatal expert Karen Kleiman and has been recognized in Philly Magazine as a "Center of Excellence" for Maternal/Fetal Care. In addition to providing direct care services to individuals, couples and groups at the center, Hilary serves as an instructor with Karen Kleiman, providing a quarterly 12 CE hour postgraduate advanced training for clinicians across the US and abroad who want to specialize in treating the perinatal population. She conducts workshops and trainings for maternal mental healthcare providers as well as non-clinical staff working with the perinatal population. Hilary co-authored the second edition of Karen Kleiman and Amy Wenzel’s Dropping The Baby and Other Scary thoughts. Her forthcoming clinical workbook on the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, co-authored by Karen Kleiman, will be published by PESI Publishing.
Parijat Deshpande is an author, speaker and the CEO of a global, boutique company dedicated to reducing pregnancy complications and ending preterm birth. On a mission to end the high-risk pregnancy crisis, she has served and supported hundreds of women through her programs, one-on-one work and bestselling book, Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us for Dear NICU Mama's annual conference 'Courage Lives Here' on November 5th! This virtual conference is for both past and present NICU moms, birthing parents, and the providers that support them! Featuring Hilary Waller, MS, LPC, Director of Education and Programming/Psychotherapist at The Postpartum Stress Center, and Parijat Desphande, renowned high-risk pregnancy specialist, author, speaker, and NICU mama.
A HUGE thank you to our sponsors Gate City Bank, Sanford Health, Essentia Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota, Angel Eye Care, and Johnson's for making it possible to offer our ticket price at a reduced rate of $65!
This special event will offer the opportunity to learn about trauma after the NICU, meet NICU mamas from around the world, and discover the courage inside of you in your journey of healing. For more information and to get your ticket today, head to www.dearnicumama.com/events!
Hilary Waller, MS, LPC, is a psychotherapist who specializes in the treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She is the director of education and programming at The Postpartum Stress Center outside of Philadelphia, which was founded by renowned perinatal expert Karen Kleiman and has been recognized in Philly Magazine as a "Center of Excellence" for Maternal/Fetal Care. In addition to providing direct care services to individuals, couples and groups at the center, Hilary serves as an instructor with Karen Kleiman, providing a quarterly 12 CE hour postgraduate advanced training for clinicians across the US and abroad who want to specialize in treating the perinatal population. She conducts workshops and trainings for maternal mental healthcare providers as well as non-clinical staff working with the perinatal population. Hilary co-authored the second edition of Karen Kleiman and Amy Wenzel’s Dropping The Baby and Other Scary thoughts. Her forthcoming clinical workbook on the treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, co-authored by Karen Kleiman, will be published by PESI Publishing.
Parijat Deshpande is an author, speaker and the CEO of a global, boutique company dedicated to reducing pregnancy complications and ending preterm birth. On a mission to end the high-risk pregnancy crisis, she has served and supported hundreds of women through her programs, one-on-one work and bestselling book, Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For many families in the NICU community, specialist appointments and recurring hospital stays are not uncommon. And it can feel challenging to know how to not only navigate their ongoing medical challenges and procedures, but also to ensure that they feel seen, heard, and validated throughout their experiences. Which is why we are thrilled to have a conversation with Dr. Eric Riklin of the UCLA Family Development Program as a guest for today’s podcast episode!
Dr. Riklin not only brings the wisdom of a Clinical Psychologist to this episode, but he also offers his own personal experience of spending a large majority of his childhood in a medical facility undergoing multiple medical procedures and facial reconstruction surgeries. For parents who are looking for insight on how to navigate medical challenges alongside their children as they age, this episode is for you.
In this episode, Eric shares:
- Ways that loved ones in his life helped make hospital experiences feel normal and a special part of his childhood
- Words of hope or encouragement for parents who feel guilt or shame about their child’s recurring hospital stays and visits
- Tangible or practical things that parents can do to prepare their children for an upcoming hospital stay or appointment
We hope that parents of medically complex NICU children feel empowered and reminded that you do not navigate this journey post NICU alone. 💕
Dr. Eric Riklin is a Pediatric Psychology Postdoctoral Fellow at Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), as well as a former Clinical Psychology Intern in the Stress, Trauma, and Resilience (STAR) Clinic at the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. Eric's psychology training has spanned a wide variety of settings, including hospitals and community mental health centers, providing brief and long-term psychotherapy to children, adolescents, young adults, and families with a wide range of psychiatric, medical, and behavioral concerns. He has over 40 publications and presentations, and has given several talks at various conferences on resilience and the mental health of youth with chronic medical conditions. Eric was born with Crouzon syndrome, a very rare craniofacial diagnosis that manifests as a facial difference and has required 25 surgeries. His experiences to date have crystallized his interest in working as a clinical psychologist with pediatric patients, and their families, as they navigate various medical and mental health needs.
To get connected with Dr. Riklin:
UCLA Family Development Program
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week’s podcast episode is a special roundtable episode with co-hosts Martha and Ashley, and editorial team member Lindsay all about bonding with our NICU babies! Throughout this episode we hear about their own personal experiences of feeling and building a bond with their babies, some of the triumphs and challenges they experienced with bonding, and how they have continued to bond with their children after the NICU.
We hope any NICU mothers listening to this episode today feel seen, heard, and reminded that a bond is more than felt. Your baby knows your love and you are never, ever alone!
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This week, we have the privilege of speaking with Katie Taylor from Child Life On Call! When bonding with your baby and navigating the world of the NICU feels isolating and difficult, a child life specialist may be a really wonderful advocate to have in your corner.
In this episode we cover:
- How can I bond with my NICU baby when I am sharing the role of a caretaker with so many other people?
- How can I bond with my baby when I’m not able to be present in the NICU 24/7?
- How can I include my older children at home in their new sibling’s NICU journey?
- How might a child life specialist be helpful in our NICU journey, and how can I access one?
We hope this conversation affirms that NICU mama, you are the best mother for your baby and a bond is built over time. 💕
Katie Taylor is a certified child life specialist, podcast host and CEO + Founder Child Life On Call. With the expertise of a child life specialist and the heart of a momma, Katie's passion is supporting parents, kids and the care team with the tools they deserve so they can transform from overwhelmed to empowered during medical experiences. With over a decade of in-hospital experience, Katie has helped hundreds of families cope with and navigate challenging life events.
Katie graduated from the Pennsylvania State University and has studied and worked at facilities like Children's National Medical Center, Inova Children's Hospital, Dell Children's Medical Center and St. David's Children's Hospital. She authored her first children's book, Super Silly Wash Your Hands Dance, in early 2020 and has been featured in the media as a child development expert. When she's not doing all things Child Life On Call, she loves spending time in the great trails of the Hill Country with her husband and two children, listening to audiobooks and visiting local Austin breweries.
To get connected with Katie:
Website | Instagram| Facebook| Child Life On Call Podcast
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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We have the honor of welcoming Dr. Frankie Harrison of Miracle Moon to the Dear NICU mama Podcast today! And we are having a discussion all about engaging with social media in a way that honors our hearts and the places we are at in our healing journeys.
In this episode we cover:
- What is power of storytelling and sharing our journeys, specifically on social media?
- What are some ways that we can gently engage with social media? What are some ways we can protect our hearts if the content we’re seeing is too much?
- How can we move forward when we find ourselves comparing our motherhood story to others that we see on social media?
- For the moms who don’t feel comfortable sharing their story yet, what are some tangible ways that they can receive support?
We hope this episode gives you permission to engage and disengage with social media in a way that honors your heart. You are never ever alone! 💕
Dr Frankie Harrison is a clinical psychologist who specializes in supporting parents through their NICU journeys and beyond. Frankie is also a NICU mama herself, she had her first baby at 31+1 due to pre-eclampsia, so knows first-hand the impact NICU can have on your wellbeing. She runs an online community called miraclemoonuk where she shares psychological knowledge for people to normalize and validate people’s experiences. She also runs a private practice where she helps people individually and runs courses to make psychological support accessible.
To get connected with Frankie
Website | Instagram| Facebook | Miracle Moon Podcast
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.To learn more about Every Tiny Thing mentioned in this episode, head here!
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On today’s podcast episode, we have a seat around the table with DNM Podcast co-hosts, Martha and Ashley, as they share their personal journeys of returning to work after their NICU journeys!
Throughout this episode we hear their personal reflections on how they navigated the fears of sending their child to daycare, and how they knew that returning to work was the right decision for them and their family. They also share vulnerably about how they combat mom guilt, and what they do to cultivate intentional time for their family and for themselves.
We hope other working moms feel honored and validated. Whether you are returning to work by choice, or because of necessity, you are never alone!
To learn more about Every Tiny Thing mentioned in this episode, head here!
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On today’s podcast episode, we have the honor of having a roundtable discussion with three remarkable stay-at-home moms! Kendra, Lexxa, and Sara share about their own personal journeys of becoming stay at home moms after their NICU journeys, and how they have navigated and embraced this new life transition.
Throughout this episode we hear their personal reflections on the challenges of leaving a career that they enjoyed, and how they found and continue to find their new identity as mothers. They also share vulnerably about the feelings of isolation that came along with parenting in a pandemic, and how they intentionally nurtured their own hearts in the process.
We hope other SAHMs feel seen, loved, recognized, and honored. Whether you are staying at home by choice, or because of necessity, you are never alone!
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We have the honor and privilege of welcoming back Parijat Deshpande back to the Dear NICU mama Podcast! And today we are learning all about trauma in the body, specifically trauma in the body after we come home from the NICU.
In this episode we cover:
- What happens to the brain/body connection as a result of trauma? Why does this happen?
- What are some ways trauma can show up in our bodies after a traumatic birth and/or NICU experience?
- Sometimes it feels our trauma is filtering our ability to connect with our loved ones and our baby…which then starts the shame cycle. Can you explain why this happens and what we can do to interrupt the cycle?
- Is there hope to reclaim “old parts” of our selves? Is it ever too late to fully heal and find safety in our bodies after trauma?
We hope this episode offers you gentle yet powerful reminders that you are not broken, your body is not against you, and that healing and hope after NICU is possible. You are never alone on this journey of lifelong healing! This sisterhood believes in you, and most importantly walks with you.
Parijat Deshpande is author, speaker, and the CEO of a global, boutique company dedicated to reducing pregnancy complications and ending preterm birth. They do this through concierge level private client services focused on trauma-informed, neurobiological approaches to reproductive health. Parijat and her team also offer trauma-sensitive professional trainings for providers and practitioners. They also partner with hospitals, clinics, and maternal health organization to add a missing piece to the puzzle of ending prematurity and improving pregnancy outcomes worldwide.
Parijat is the author of bestselling book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy. And she is the host of the popular podcast Delivering Miracles®️, that discusses the real, raw side of family-building including infertility, loss, high-risk pregnancy, bed rest, prematurity and healing once baby comes home.
To get connected with Parijat Deshpande:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Delivering Miracles® Podcast
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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This week’s podcast episode is part 2 of Kate’s NICU journey with her twin girls, Remmy and Reese! In part 1 Kate shared about the twins’ delivery and separation surgery, and in part 2 we hear more about the remainder of their NICU journeys and how they are thriving with their busy family at home.
To the medically complex NICU mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel seen and heard throughout this episode. Know that this sisterhood sees you and honors your unique motherhood journey.
To get connected with DNM:
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This week, we have the honor of hearing part 1 of Kate's NICU story with her conjoined twins, Remy and Reese! Throughout this episode, Kate shares about her high-risk pregnancy journey, her first moments with the girls and their NICU journeys leading up to their separation surgery, and also what it was like to get to know her girls not only as twins but also as as two new individual girls after their surgery.
To any of our medically complex NICU mamas or mamas in our community who have experienced a high-risk pregnancy or an extensive NICU stay, we hope you feel heard and seen throughout this episode and that you marvel at how far both you and your miracle(s) have come.
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On this week's episode, we have the honor of hearing from Martha and another Dear NICU Mama team member, Aisha, about their experiences with grief after infant loss. If you are not in the right space to hear stories of loss, it’s okay to honor your heart and save this episode for another time.
To the loss mamas in our community, we hope this podcast episode is a gentle reminder that you are not alone in your healing journey. This sisterhood is here to not only support you, but also to honor and celebrate the miraculous life of your Angel baby.
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When we think of grief, we often think of grieving someone that has passed away. But what about when we grieve something we have lost, like an experience or the motherhood journey we always envisioned we would have? On this week's episode, we speak with Jessica Hotchkiss from Praireland Counseling Services about grief and its relation to NICU motherhood.
In this episode we cover:
- Myths and truths about grief
- What healthy grieving looks like
- What NICU mothers might grieve
- Will grief always hurt and is there a timeline?
- How to move through grief without rushing the healing process
Our hope is that this episode affirms that no matter where you are in your healing journey, that your grief is valid and not too big. You are never ever alone!
Jessica Hotchkiss is a licensed mental health counselor in the state of North Dakota and a Certified Child Life Specialist. Specializing in death, grief, and bereavement, Jessica has 10 years of experience in both the hospital and outpatient settings providing support to children, adults and families. She also holds certification as a grief counselor conducting training and presentations at the local, national, and international levels. Jessica has created courses for master's and doctoral counseling students in the area of bereavement and is passionate about preparing individuals to work with grief and loss. Her research and expertise works to combat burnout, compassion fatigue, and death anxiety. She specializes in working with children and families living with chronic or terminal medical conditions or experiencing medical trauma.
To get connected with Jessica:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
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Welcome to season 5! We have missed connecting with you all here on the podcast, and we are so excited to be back. Throughout this episode, Martha and Ashley share about some of the upcoming episodes releasing in season 5, and they also share about Walking Letter of Hope Day which is happening on August 6th, 2022!
This signature event is designed to honor all of you—the Walking Letters of Hope for NICU mamas everywhere. Each of you, through your own unique experiences, are an incredible beacon of hope for women healing from their own individual journeys. This August, we celebrate you and shine a light on the hope you give.
You can participate in this event through three distinct avenues:
- Wear your Walking Letter of Hope apparel from Dear NICU Mama on August 6th to raise awareness for the organization and the invaluable support this community provides.
- Share your story with your network. Give mamas reason to have hope! Your testimonial is powerful and can be life-changing for those navigating the NICU.
- Give to Dear NICU mama. Your donations are vital in moving this mission forward and creating a support network for families. You can donate as an individual, or make a fundraising team with family and friends!
Keep following along with us here for more updates as we move closer to the date! We are excited to partner with you and celebrate this growing sisterhood. Welcome to season 5!
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This week, Martha and Ashley are wrapping up season 4 by reflecting and celebrating big recent milestones in DNM history! We will be back with brand new stories and specialist interviews in July, but in the meantime be sure to check out our social media pages and engage with our beautiful sisterhood.
If you are interested in supporting Dear NICU Mama as we continue to grow our outreach, programs, and services, you can support us by checking out our Walking Letter of Hope Collections in the Dear NICU Mama Shop, adding us on AmazonSmile, or by making direct donations via our website. We cannot express how thankful we are for this amazing sisterhood and are so excited to share more content and stories with you all in July!
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This week, we are wrapping up Allison and Amos' journey in part 3! We hear about the weeks and months after Amos received his life-saving liver transplant, and how both he and Allison are thriving today. We hope any transplant mamas or mamas navigating complex medical diagnosis after NICU know that you are not alone.
To listen to part 1 of Allison + Amos' journey head here, and to listen to part 2 head here!
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Happy Mother's Day, beautiful NICU mamas! We wanted to make space this week to celebrate how wonderful YOU are. On this week's special episode, we have the pleasure of sharing some words of love and encouragement from the Dear NICU Mama sisterhood around the country!
We hope that you take time this week to honor your unique and special motherhood journey. You are loved, you are seen, and you are never ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
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On this week's episode, we are sharing part 2 of Allison and Amos' NICU journey! In this episode, we learn about Amos' medical journey to a liver transplant. From the first indications of something wrong with his liver during his NICU stay, to a confusing and stressful time at home after discharge, and ultimately to the very rapid decline in his health that landed him back in the hospital, unable to return home until he received the life saving gift of a new liver. April is also National Pediatric Transplant Week, and we feel honored to share such a remarkable story in honor of this special week!
We hope that any transplant mamas listening feel honored and celebrated throughout this episode and throughout this week of honoring pediatric transplant journeys.
To listen to part 1 of Allison + Amos' journey, head here!
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week's episode, we have the opportunity to share part 1 of Allison's motherhood journey with her precious son, Amos! At 25 weeks, Amos was born via emergency c-section after Allison's water broke early. Throughout this episode, we learn about Allison's pregnancy journeys and how they differed from each other, as well as Amos' NICU journey and how Allison balanced time with her NICU baby and daughter home.
We hope that preemie mamas and mamas with older kids at home listening feel seen and validated. You are more than enough NICU mama and you are never, ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
We are BACK! After months of never ending illness and family transitions, we are officially back to connecting with you all on the podcast and we couldn’t be more excited. On this week's episode, we have the honor of sharing Sara's NICU journey with her sweet boy, Connor! At 22 weeks, Sara experienced PPROM and ultimately delivered Connor at 23 weeks and 4 days. Throughout this episode, we hear about Connor's early moments in the NICU, his Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) diagnosis, and how healing has been three years out of the NICU.
We hope that mamas navigating those dreaded eye exams or are learning about ROP treatment options feel seen and heard. And no matter where you are on your own healing journey, we hope this episode reminds you that you are never ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week’s episode is a special episode because it is a Mamas Call In episode! We are nearing the end of cold and flu season. (And all NICU mamas said hooray!) But we did want to take a moment to have a conversation about navigating illness after NICU. Throughout this episode, Martha and Ashley share about their own personal experiences with illness after NICU and what words of hope they would offer other NICU mamas who find themselves in a similar place.
We also asked NICU mamas in our sisterhood to call in and share their stories and any words of encouragement they have for other NICU mamas navigating illness or hospitalization after NICU. Our hope is that this episode reminds you that in and out of the NICU, you are never ever alone. 💕
Thank you to Lome for sponsoring this week’s podcast episode! Head to withlome.com/dearnicu to learn more and try Lome for free!
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode we have the opportunity to have a conversation with the one and only Anese of The Breakthrough Mama! Not only is she a licensed maternal mental health specialist, but she is also a NICU mama herself who has dedicated her practice to serving and empowering high-risk pregnancy mamas and NICU mamas. Because safety and feeling grounded are necessary to begin the process of healing, this episode is dedicated to the topic of establishing safety within our bodies.
In this episode we cover:
- What are some ways that trauma can reveal itself in the body, and how can we listen to what our bodies are telling us?
- What does it mean to be grounded and how can we do this when we are feeling triggered or unsafe?
- What does it feel like to feel safe in the body? What does it feel like to not feel safe in the body? What is one way a mom can find safety in her body?
- How can a NICU mom seeking out therapy advocate and find a qualified provider in her area that is willing to do the hard inner work?
We hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone and also gently reminds you that just because something is common, doesn’t mean it has to be your standard. You are worthy of the time and investment it takes to heal.
Anese Barnett is a veteran NICU mama to a now rambunctious toddler who is the inspiration for her work and research. She is a perinatal mental health therapist and clinical psychology doctoral student who is passionate about improving mommy's mental health, especially for those experiencing high-risk pregnancy and the NICU. Anese uses her personal and professional experiences to help NICU mamas and women with high-risk pregnancy find the healing, peace, and joy they deserve. Her dream is to see every NICU in this country equipped with the necessary psychological resources to help parents journey through the unexpected.
To get connected with Anese:
Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
In honor of heart month, this week's episode is part 2 of Michaela’s motherhood journey with her daughter and heart warrior, Mia. After Mia’s 20 week ultrasound, she was diagnosed with congenital heart disease and a mass in the middle of her face. Mia was born via c section at 39 weeks and after 155 days in the cardiovascular ICU fighting for her life.
Because of the severity of her heart defects (DORV, TGA, Hypoplastic RV, Pulmonary Atresia, and VSD) she ended up having three heart surgeries in the first 6 months of her life. After her birth, the mass on her face was diagnosed as a mature teratoma (tumor). Because of the presence of the tumor, Mia has a severe facial cleft that causes vision and nasal airway problems. The tumor was removed when she was almost 4 months old.
Throughout this episode Michaela shares about how Mia has proven to be a warrior and pursued through every obstacle she came up against; including 4 major surgeries, cardiac arrest, an hour of CPR and two weeks of ECMO support. She has a long road ahead of her with another heart surgery, an unknown amount of facial surgeries and navigating life with a visible facial difference, but for today, Mia is thriving at home. She loves playing with her sisters and is the happiest 2 year old her parents have met!
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
February is heart month! And on this week's episode, we have the honor of sharing part 1 of Michaela’s motherhood journey with her daughter and heart warrior, Mia. After Mia’s 20 week ultrasound, Mia was diagnosed with congenital heart disease and a mass in the middle of her face. Parents, Michaela and Jared, spent a lot of the next 20 weeks preparing for Mia’s birth and what life might look like after raising a child with severe birth defects. Mia was born via c section at 39 weeks and then spent the next 155 days in the cardiovascular ICU fighting for her life.
Throughout this episode Michaela shares about Mia’s delivery, Mia’s first moments in the NICU, and how their family began to prepare for Mia’s many upcoming surgeries. We hope that this episode affirms any of our heart NICU mamas or medically complex NICU mamas that you are never ever alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
It’s year three of the Covid pandemic, and many of us are at our breaking points. For those of us who have immunocompromised children or have journeyed through the NICU during this time, the pandemic has brought an additional set of challenges and it has taken a major toll on our collective mental health. But NICU mama, you are not alone.
This week’s episode is a conversation with the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling all about mental health, pandemic fatigue, and how we can continue to navigate it all with self-compassion.
In this episode we cover:
- What is pandemic fatigue and how can we move through it?
- What does realistic mindfulness look like and how can we make time for it?
- What are some gentle practices we can implement to regulate our anxiety and our emotional highs and lows?
- How do we find a licensed maternal mental health therapist? What can we do in the meantime while we are on a wait list or are searching for the right provider?
NICU mama, we hope this episode affirms that if you find yourself struggling, you are not making this up. This is hard because this is really really hard. Know that sisterhood is with you, believes in you, and is so very proud of you. You can do this. We will do this together.
Apps Mentioned in Episode:
- Calm: https://www.calm.com/
- Headspace: https://www.headspace.com/
- Stop Breathe Think: https://stopbreathethink.com/
Therapist Resources Mentioned in Episode:
- Postpartum Support International: https://www.postpartum.net/
- Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/psychiatrists
- Therapy Den: https://www.therapyden.com/
Suicide Hotline Number: 800-273-8255
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the honor of sharing part 2 of Jules’ NICU journey with her daughter, Juliana! When Jules was 25 weeks pregnant, her and her husband were hit in a head-on collision by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel. After a one hour ambulance ride and close monitoring at the hospital, they discovered that her placenta had abrupted 70 percent from the impact of the crash. Juliana was delivered 12 hours after the accident via emergency c-section at 25 weeks.
After 105 days in the NICU and a life-saving brain surgery, they embarked on their journey at home as a family! After they were home, Juliana was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Throughout this episode Jules shares about their first moments together at home, how her and her husband processed Juliana’s initial diagnosis and how they continue to advocate for Juliana today, and also how they have healed and grown as a couple.
We hope that this episode affirms any medically complex NICU mamas listening that you are not alone. You can do this and have a sisterhood walking this journey with you! To listen to Jules' Part 1 episode, head here.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Happy New Year! While we are so grateful to have had some time to rest and recharge over the holidays, we have greatly missed connecting with you all here on the podcast!
Throughout this episode, Martha and Ashley share about their holiday moments with their families and their personal hopes for the upcoming year. We are so grateful for this community and we cannot wait to share upcoming interviews with experts and stories of remarkable NICU mamas around the world in 2022!
Thank you to Bonsie for sponsoring this week’s podcast episode! To browse their full collections and learn more about the benefits of skin-to-skin, head to www.bonsie.com!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week’s podcast episode is a replay of an episode from season 3 with Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling! With the holidays approaching and with many of us having hard conversations with loved ones about boundaries, we wanted to share this episode as an extra boost of confidence.
This sisterhood believes in you, is so very proud of you, and is wishing you all a very merry holiday season. We can't wait to be back on the podcast with you all after the holiday break!
Oh, boundaries. We all know we need them, but setting and defining them can feel really complicated! Especially when we are setting boundaries with the people we love most in our lives.
As we approach another holiday, we wanted to sure to have an open and honest conversation about boundaries that not only offers insight into what healthy boundaries can look like, but also offers helpful tools on how to implement these boundaries. We couldn't think of a better guest and teacher to have share about this on our podcast than the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling!
In this episode we cover:
- What a healthy boundary is and how do define what a healthy boundary is for your family
- How to define and set these boundaries with loved ones without damaging the relationship
- How to navigate boundaries when your partner's boundaries may differ
- Conversational examples of how to verbally have the discussion about boundaries with family and close friends
Whether you are new to setting boundaries or have been doing this for years, we hope that this podcast affirms you and gives you courage as you define what healthy boundaries are for your family!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week's episode, we have the honor of sharing part 1 of Jules' motherhood journey with her daughter Juliana. Jules and her husband tried for 10 yrs to conceive a child, and on their last fertility treatment they became pregnant! At 21 weeks we found out that we were expecting a baby girl.
When Jules was 25 weeks pregnant, her and her husband were hit in a head-on collision by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel. After a one hour ambulance ride and close monitoring at the hospital, they discovered that her placenta had abrupted 70 percent from the impact of the crash. Juliana was delivered 12 hours after the accident via emergency c-section.
When Juliana was 3 days old, an ultrasound confirmed she sustained a grade 4 brain hemorrhage, and at 8 weeks old (33 weeks) she developed hydrocephalus. Juliana received a
life-saving brain surgery to place a shunt and was critical for 72 hours after her surgery. Throughout her NICU stay, she continued to pull through as the fighter that she is and came home after 105 days in the NICU!
We hope that this episode affirms any NICU mama listening that no matter how close or far away you are from your NICU journey, that healing is lifelong. You are worthy of the time it takes to heal.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week's episode, co-hosts Martha and Ashley share about their own personal healing journeys surrounding anniversaries, milestones, and big holidays. As we come down from a large holiday and prepare for an even larger one, we know that there can be significant emotional exhaustion. (On top of healing and processing through our children's big anniversaries and milestones!)
So throughout this episode, Martha and Ashley share candidly about what healing has looked like for them over the years, how they continue to honor and celebrate their children's milestones and big anniversaries, and how they care for their hearts throughout the holiday seasons.
Our hope is that any NICU mom listening would feel affirmed that healing is lifelong, and that with each and every passing year you will continue to become a stronger and more resilient woman. You are never ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the opportunity to interview Dr. Mona Amin of the PedsDocTalk Podcast! Dr. Amin is a Board Certified General Pediatrician and NICU mama herself, as well as the founder and educator of the organization PedsDocTalk. Through her platform and private practice her goal is to provide relatable and easy-to-digest educate the modern parent regarding the health and wellness of their child.
Throughout the episode, we talk about:
- Dr. Mona’s personal pregnancy, delivery, and NICU journey with her son
- What it was like to experience an emergency delivery and NICU journey as a medical provider
- How to trust our guts and make the right decisions we are able to for our children and our personal health
- How can we be the best advocate for our children both in and out of the NICU
We hope that this episode empowers you to advocate for your children alongside your medical team and remind you that NICU mama, your voice matters. You can do this!
To get connected with Dr. Mona Amin:
Instagram | Website | The New Mom’s Survival Giude | The PedsDocTalk Podcast | Youtube
Dr. Mona Amin is a Board Certified General Pediatrician and mother. She has been featured on Parents.com, Romper, CondeNast Traveler, VeryWell Family, NBC News, and was named one of Insider’s Top Pediatricians to follow on social media for 2020. She works in private practice and her passions include: early childhood development, focusing on the impact of healthy sleep, a healthy relationship with food, and healthy coping skills in the first five years of a child's life.
On her Instagram account (@pedsdoctalk), her podcast (The Pedsdoctalk Podcast), and YouTube channel (Pedsdoctalk TV), she shares educational information on parent's most common concerns (i.e. fevers, rashes, viruses, behavioral issues, etc.) including current events. Through her brand Pedsdoctalk*, her goal is to provide relatable and easy-to-digest education for the modern parent regarding the health and wellness of their child.
She recently launched The New Mom’s Survival Guide, the first online digital e-course created by a Pediatrician and mom to guide you and your baby through their first year of life. With how-to-videos and motivational content, she educates and empowers new moms to make the best decisions for their babies.*
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the honor of sharing part two of Taylor’s motherhood journey with her son, Milo! Milo was born full-term and had a NICU stay of 188 days that included 2 ambulatory transfers and 3 hospitals. (To listen to part one, head here!)
Upon birth, Milo was diagnosed with Vacterl association after being born with a VSD, TEF, and an ectopic kidney. He underwent his first of 3 TEF repairs at 3 days old, 2 of those repairs included opening up his chest, and he also underwent multiple dilation procedures on his esophagus, open heart surgery to repair his VSD, multiple blood transfusions, and a g-tube placement surgery. (Amongst many other things!) After being told he could potentially make it home by Halloween, then Thanksgiving, then Christmas he went on to spend many more milestones in the hospital before finally making it home in time for Mother’s Day!
Throughout this episode, Taylor shares more in depth about what it was like to mother a child at home and a child in the NICU, and she also shares openly about her family’s healing post NICU, including her husband’s personal journey of substance abuse and the brave personal steps he took to heal and become the dad he needed to be for both of his kids.
We hope that all listening feel seen, heard, and validated throughout this episode. And for any of our NICU mamas whose partners have walked through their own mental health or rehabilitation journeys, we hope you are affirmed and reminded that you are never ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Our November virtual event is only a week and a half away! Which is why for this week’s podcast episode, we are sharing a replay of an episode from season 3 with Parijat Deshpande! Parijat is the keynote speaker of our November event, and if you are on the fence about registering and long to learn more about Parijat and her practice, this episode is a great episode to do just that.
For more information about our upcoming virtual event on November 13th and for tickets, head here!
Have you tried exercising after your trauma but found yourself feeling particularly triggered? If so, you are not alone and you are absolutely not broken. Today we have the one and only Parijat Desphande with Healthy High Risk Pregnancy on the podcast to talk all about exercise and trauma! With swimsuit season soon approaching, we know there is an increased pressure to “get our bodies back”. But for NICU mothers and women who have experienced trauma throughout their family building journey, exercise isn’t always that simple.
In this episode we cover:
- Why might exercise trigger a trauma response in our bodies?
- Why might “getting our body back” not be as simple for NICU mothers?
- When might a mama know that a form of exercise isn’t quite right or isn’t honoring her body’s stored trauma?
- What are some gentle forms of exercise that a mama could start with that would nourish her body if she is longing to take care of herself?
We hope this episode affirms the mamas in our sisterhood that your body is on your side. Most importantly? You are worthy and loved just as you are.
Parijat Deshpande is the leading integrative high-risk pregnancy specialist, somatic trauma professional and speaker and author who guides women to improve their pregnancy complications so they can reduce their risk of preterm birth. Her unique neurobiological approach has served hundreds of women to manage pregnancy complications and reclaim a safety and trust in their bodies that they thought was eroded forever. Parijat is the author of bestselling book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy. She is also the host of the popular podcast Delivering Miracles®️, that discusses the real, raw side of family-building including infertility, loss, high-risk pregnancy, bed rest, prematurity and healing once baby comes home.
To get connected with Parijat Deshpande:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Delivering Miracles® Podcast
Parijat's Book, Pregnancy Brain - Available on Kindle and paperback on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. - https://parijatdeshpande.lpages.co/pregnancybrain/
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, join Martha and Ashley in welcoming Dr. Michelle Wyatt for a special mini-interview! Dr. Wyatt is a Maternal Fetal Medicine physician at Essentia Health, our presenting sponsor for the Dear NICU Mama Event: Be Proud of Who You’ve Become. In anticipation of this incredible event, we chat about Maternal Fetal Medicine practice, what Essentia Health is doing to support NICU families, and words of wisdom for Dr. Wyatt herself!
Registration is still available for Be Proud of Who You’ve Become Presented by Essentia Health, hosted virtually on November 13th, 2021. For more information visit, www.dearnicumama.com/events !
To get connected with Essentia Health: https://www.essentiahealth.org
Michelle Wyatt is a Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist at Essentia Health in Fargo, ND. She is a Minnesota native growing up in a suburb of Minneapolis and completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities. She graduated Sum Cum laude and Phi beta Kappa with a B.S in biochemistry and B.A. in Physiology. She attended Medical School at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine where she met her husband. She completed her residency in Obstetrics & Gynecology and fellowship in Maternal Fetal Medicine also at Mayo Clinic. She is the mother to two handsome boys. Their family enjoys being out on the water in the summer and watching football in the fall. During her free time, she enjoys baking and crafting. She has a passion for working with families experiencing high risk pregnancies and an interest in researching and improving the quality of care in obstetrics.To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the honor of sharing part 1 of Taylor’s motherhood journey with her son, Milo! Milo was born full-term and had a NICU stay of 188 days that included 2 ambulatory transfers and 3 hospitals.
Upon birth, Milo was diagnosed with Vacterl association after being born with a VSD, TEF, and an ectopic kidney. He underwent his first of 3 TEF repairs at 3 days old, 2 of those repairs included opening up his chest, and he also underwent multiple dilation procedures on his esophagus, open heart surgery to repair his VSD, multiple blood transfusions, and a g-tube placement surgery. (Amongst many other things!) After being told he could potentially make it home by Halloween, then Thanksgiving, then Christmas he went on to spend many more milestones in the hospital before finally making it home in time for Mother’s Day!
Not only is Taylor’s story special because of Milo’s resilience, but also because of the resilience she showed throughout her stay as a pandemic NICU mama and a mama to her older child Charlie. We hope that all of our pandemic NICU mamas feel seen, heard, and validated throughout this episode. You journeyed through so much alone - but we hope that you feel surrounded and loved by this sisterhood today.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week’s episode is a mini episode all about our upcoming event on November 13th, 2021! If you’ve had any questions about our event or wondered what to expect when attending the event, we hope this episode answers some of those questions!
Our “Be Proud of Who you’ve Become” event is designed specifically for current and past NICU mamas. Featuring renowned high-risk pregnancy specialist, author, speaker, and NICU mama, Parijat Desphande as our keynote speaker and Anese Barnett, maternal mental health expert and founder of The Breakthrough Mama. This special event will offer the opportunity to learn about trauma after the NICU, meet NICU mamas from around the world, and discover the hope of healing.
All registrations will include admission to our live event on November 13, 2021, access to the recording after the event, and a Dear NICU Mama gift box mailed prior to event. (Event registrations must be received by November 1st in order to receive your box by the event date. For attendees outside of the United States, please know that there may be delays, and we will do our best to get it to you on time!)
Event Schedule:
- 3:00 PM Pre-Event Reflection with Anese Barnett
- 4:00 PM Welcome
- 4:15 PM Keynote: Parijat Deshpande
- 5:00 PM Q&A with Parijat Desphande
- 5:30 PM BREAK
- 5:40 PM Life After NICU Panel
- 6:25 PM Breakout Session
- 7:30 PM Closing & Post-Event Reflection with Anese Barnett
Need-based scholarships available! If you are interested in requesting a scholarship or funding a scholarship for another mama, please email hello@dearnicumama.com* *
For previous podcasts episodes with Parijat, head here or here. For our previous podcast episode with Anese, head here!
To register, head to www.dearnicumama.com/events! We’d love to have you join us.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the honor of sharing Jamie’s motherhood journey with her twins, Cooper and Lydia! Cooper and Lydia were born at 26 weeks, and had a NICU stay of 80 days. Not only is their story special because of their resilience, but also because today they are now thriving 19 year olds heading to college and we get to hear about the young adults they are becoming!
Throughout this episode, Jamie shares about what it has been like to see Cooper and Lydia grow up and hit so many milestones, as well as how their NICU journey has shaped the mother and woman she has become today. We hope that for any current or new NICU moms, this episode offers hope and encouragement to your heart for all that is to come. And for our “older” NICU moms, we hope you feel seen and heard throughout this episode. While support resources such as Dear NICU Mama, may not have existed at the time of your stay, we hope you feel surrounded by this sisterhood today. You are never alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Cold and flu season, pandemic, RSV oh my! On this week’s episode, we have the opportunity to sit down with a very well-known and respected pediatrician in the Fargo Moorhead area, Dr. Stephanie Hanson with Sanford Health. Dr. Hanson has 11 years of pediatric experience, and in her practice has seen many NICU grads come through her clinic. Cold and flu season is a scary topic for any new mother, but for many NICU mothers there is an added element of fear as their babies may have compromised immune systems. Add on the pandemic and this time of year can be very anxiety inducing. So today we wanted to take the opportunity to share some practical information regarding cold and flu season from a licensed and experienced medical professional!
Throughout the episode, we talk about:
- Why is cold and flu season picking up so early this year?
- What are some basic practices a NICU mom can do to protect her child’s immune system during cold and flu season?
- What can our response be when well-meaning friends and family say things like “Don’t live in fear… they have to build their immune system sometime!”
- Words of encouragement for NICU families who are sending their kids to daycare and school
We hope that this episode eases some of your fears, gets you away from those midnight google searches, and reminds you that you are your baby's best advocate. You can do this mama!
To get connected with Sanford Health: www.sanfordhealth.org
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
WE'RE BACK! While we are so grateful to have had some time to rest and recharge over the month of August, we have greatly missed connecting with you all here on the podcast!
Throughout this episode we talk about some of the new and exciting things happening at Dear NICU Mama, how our summers have unfolded, and Martha shares about her recent hospitalization experience with her daughter. Our hope is that any NICU mama listening would feel affirmed that no matter what you are facing, you are surrounded and supported by this sisterhood.
We are so grateful for this community and we cannot wait to share upcoming interviews with experts and stories of remarkable NICU mamas around the world!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week's episode is all about Walking Letter of Hope Day 2021!!! We are SO excited to celebrate our second annual Walking Letter of Hope Day with this sisterhood on August 14th, 2021. Throughout this episode we share how you can get involved and create your own fundraising team, as well as how you can partner with the growing mission and movement of Dear NICU Mama!
To participate and register, head to: www.dearnicumama.com/hope
To listen to our interview with Jess of Only You Podcast mentioned in the episode, head here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
For many NICU mothers, the decision on how and if to grow their family after NICU or birth trauma can be complex. And for some, the decision on whether or not they are able to grow their family via pregnancy was made for them due to emergency medical procedures or interventions. This decision can feel additionally complex when questions such as “When are you going to give your child a sibling?” arise in daily conversation, and outdated social assumptions made about only children still exist. But because of the work of communities like “Only You Podcast”, these social norms are changing!
In this episode, Jess shares about her own preeclampsia journey, her daughter’s PICU and medically complex journey, and how her and her husband decided together to be a “one and done” family. She also debunks many of the myths and misconceptions surrounding having an only child and hint - they thrive!
We hope that this podcast episode affirms the NICU mamas in our sisterhood that have decided or are making the decision to be a “one and done” family that your family building journey is celebrated and honored. At the end of the day you know what is best for your family and that is enough.
About Jess: Pre-eclampsia survivor, NICU mama, co-host of Only You: A One and Done Podcast and mother of a two year old. Advocate for one child families and empowering parents with the right to choose.To get connected with Jess:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
It’s no secret that each individual will process and navigate trauma in their own way. And when it comes to how we heal and grow alongside our partners in and out of the NICU, having tools for how to communicate and grow together can help immensely. To lead us in this discussion is the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling!
In this episode we cover:
- How can we communicate with our partners when we process trauma differently?
- How can we communicate with our partners when we are in different places emotionally in our healing?
- How can an inward processor and an outward processor work together and find common ground?
- How can we communicate our needs to our partners?
- What are some practical and gentle tips to preserve connection both in and out of the NICU?
We hope this episode offers some tangible tools and wisdom for how to communicate and heal alongside your partner. You are never ever alone!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode we hear from our editorial team member, Sarah! Throughout pregnancy, Sarah was monitored very closely for significant ovarian cysts. At her 37 week OB appointment, she was admitted to the hospital due to lack of fluids and Mason was born 24 hours later!
Upon delivery, he was rushed to the NICU because of lack of oxygen and they discovered that his lungs did not inflate and were the size of raisins. After his lungs had fully developed in size and strength he was able to come after one week in the NICU.
Throughout the episode Sarah shares about what it was like to journey through the NICU as a full-term mom, and some of the misconceptions she has encountered from people regarding her son’s stay. We hope that this episode affirms other full-term mamas with “shorter” stays that your NICU journey is significant, valid and honored.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
In an effort to celebrate Father's Day and NICU dads everywhere, we have a very special podcast episode to share with you this week! On this week's episode, we have the opportunity to hear from NICU dad Jose.
Throughout this episode he shares what it was like for him to walk through the NICU journey as a NICU dad, how him and his wife supported each other throughout their son's stay, and how he is still processing his son's NICU and medically complex journey today.
We are so grateful for his vulnerability and for the time he took to share his perspective of NICU fatherhood! We hope this episodes affirms the NICU dads listening that your voice is an important and invaluable part of your child's NICU stay too.
Happy Father's Day, NICU dads! We are so grateful for all you do.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Welcome to SEASON 4! We are kicking off season 4 with a roundtable episode with co-hosts Martha and Ashley, and founding board member Kendra!
Throughout this episode, Martha, Ashley, and Kendra share about what their transitions home looked like, when they started to process their NICU journeys and prioritize their mental health, and they also offer words of encouragement to newly discharged NICU mamas.
The Dear NICU Mama sisterhood exists for the past and the present NICU mom. No matter where you are in your personal NICU journey, know that you do not walk it alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month! And for today’s episode, we have the opportunity to sit down with Rebekah Tompkins, MD to chat about not only preeclampsia, but also HELLP Syndrome. Rebekah Tompkins not only specializes in high-risk pregnancy, but she personally experienced preeclampsia, HELLP, and a NICU stay with her firstborn son. Not only does she offer sound doctrine on the medical and physical effects of preeclampsia, but she also offers the firsthand perspective of journeying through this herself. We are so grateful for the wisdom and empathy that she brings to this conversation!
In this episode we cover:
- What is preeclampsia?
- What is HELLP and how is it different than preeclampsia?
- If I developed preeclampsia in my previous pregnancy, how likely am I to develop it again in future pregnancies? Is there anything I can do to prevent preeclampsia from reoccurring?
- Are there any additional health risks for either mom or baby associated with preeclampsia after birth?
We hope that this episode offers some sound wisdom on all things regrading preeclampsia, and reminds you once again of how miraculous both you and your little one are. You are a survivor, mama!
Rebekah Tompkins, MD, is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology, specializing in high-risk pregnancy, infertility and menopause. She practices at Sanford Women’s at Sanford Southpointe Clinic in Fargo. Dr. Tompkins earned her medical degree from the University of North Dakota and completed her residency at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, AZ.
*Dr. Tompkins and her husband, Matt, have two children and two dogs. Dr. Tompkins loves traveling, experiencing new cultures and doing almost anything outdoors. In addition to English, she speaks Japanese and Spanish. She also enjoys baking and reading - although most recently her reading is limited to OB/GYN textbooks and the Curious George collection.
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.*
To get connected with Sanford Health Women’s:
Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the opportunity to hear part 2 of Tiffany’s NICU journey with her twin girls, Finley and Isla! Throughout this episode we have the opportunity to hear more about Isla’s NICU journey and what life at home looked like for their family of 5.
While in the NICU with her twin Finley, Isla was diagnosed with MRSA at 2 weeks old. When they later discovered she had pulmonary hypertension, she was then life-lighted to a Children’s Hospital 4 hours away from home. While there, she contracted pneumonia, but she miraculously recovered and was then able to withstand both a trach surgery and a g-tube surgery. She came home after 414 days in the NICU, two days before Christmas!
Tiffany shares about what it was like to have all of her kids at home, what it was like to become a medically complex NICU mom, and also how she took brave steps to address her mental health. We hope this episode affirms that you are worth the time it takes to heal. <3
To listen to part 1 of Tiffany's story, click here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the opportunity to hear part 1 of Tiffany’s NICU journey with her twin girls, Finely and Isla! After rounds of IVF, Tiffany and her husband found out they were having twins. At 24 weeks exactly, Tiffany went into labor and the girls were born the next day at 24 weeks 1 day gestation, weighing 1lb 60z and 1lb 80z.
Throughout the episode we hear all about Finley’s NICU journey and also what it was like for Tiffany to split her time between both girls and her son at home. After 129 days in the NICU, Finley graduated from the NICU and came home on low flow oxygen. Because of some significant reflux, the transition home was difficult for Finely and Tiffany shares openly about how she not only advocated for her daughter’s pediatric care, but also how she began to build her bond with Finley.
We hope this episode affirms that there is no shame for not feeling an instant bond with your baby. There is nothing wrong with you. <3
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Have you tried exercising after your trauma but found yourself feeling particularly triggered? If so, you are not alone and you are absolutely not broken. Today we have the one and only Parijat Desphande with Healthy High Risk Pregnancy on the podcast to talk all about exercise and trauma! With swimsuit season soon approaching, we know there is an increased pressure to “get our bodies back”. But for NICU mothers and women who have experienced trauma throughout their family building journey, exercise isn’t always that simple.
In this episode we cover:
- Why might exercise trigger a trauma response in our bodies?
- Why might “getting our body back” not be as simple for NICU mothers?
- When might a mama know that a form of exercise isn’t quite right or isn’t honoring her body’s stored trauma?
- What are some gentle forms of exercise that a mama could start with that would nourish her body if she is longing to take care of herself?
We hope this episode affirms the mamas in our sisterhood that your body is on your side. Most importantly? You are worthy and loved just as you are.
Parijat Deshpande is the leading integrative high-risk pregnancy specialist, somatic trauma professional and speaker and author who guides women to improve their pregnancy complications so they can reduce their risk of preterm birth. Her unique neurobiological approach has served hundreds of women to manage pregnancy complications and reclaim a safety and trust in their bodies that they thought was eroded forever. Parijat is the author of bestselling book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy. She is also the host of the popular podcast Delivering Miracles®️, that discusses the real, raw side of family-building including infertility, loss, high-risk pregnancy, bed rest, prematurity and healing once baby comes home.
To get connected with Parijat Deshpande:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Delivering Miracles® Podcast
Parijat's Book, Pregnancy Brain - Available on Kindle and paperback on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. - https://parijatdeshpande.lpages.co/pregnancybrain/
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week’s episode is a roundtable episode about c-sections with the DNM podcast co-hosts, Martha & Ashley! Throughout the episode Martha and Ashley share about their own personal c-section deliveries and how they continue to heal today.
We hope this episode affirms other c-section mamas that your birth is a worthy birth.
To listen to Martha’s NICU journeys:
S1 EP 01 | Martha Part 1
S1 EP 02 | Martha Part 2
To listen to Ashley’s NICU journey:
S2 EP 18 | Ashley | A High-Risk Pregnancy & Silas’ NICU Journey
To listen to the physical therapist interview mentioned in the episode:
S3 EP 08 | Sex After NICU and/or Birth Trauma Part 2 with Jill Ehrmantraut
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
To listen, you can find us on iTunes or Spotify, or by clicking the link below!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
If you have ever wondered what a NICU journey would have been like 50+ years ago, today’s episode is one you will want to tune into. Janet is a twin NICU mama to Kelly and Kevin who were born at 26 weeks. Upon delivery, Kevin tragically passed away at 7 hours of birth while Kelly spent a total of 62 days in the NICU. (Which at the time was simply a section in the corner of the nursery!)
Throughout this episode we not only have the opportunity to hear about how far we have come in how we advocate for mother to baby bonding, but Janet also shares about how she honors and remembers Kevin today, who Kelly has become and how he is thriving with a family of his own, and she offers words of love to the Angel loss mamas in our sisterhood.
** This episode does cover infant loss, and if that may be a trigger for you, we ask that you listen to this episode in an environment that you feel safe and/or at a time when you feel ready.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode we hear from mama of two, Lexxa! Lexxa delivered her daughter Ali at 28 weeks 2 days due to severe preeclampsia, and Ali weighed 2lbs 2oz at birth. She spent 88 days in the NICU and came home on oxygen and an NG tube and is now a healthy and thriving toddler! In the middle of the pandemic, Lexxa and her husband found out they were pregnant with their son Luka. Because of her history with preeclampsia, her pregnancy was high-risk from the start and she was monitored very closely throughout. Luke was born at 36 weeks + 4 days weighing 5lbs 12 oz due to severe preeclampsia as well, but he did not have a NICU stay. He is healthy and home soaking up all of the love from his sister!
Throughout this episode Lexxa share openly and honestly about how she advocated throughout Ali’s NICU stay and during both of her pregnancies, as well as what it was like to be pregnant again after having a preemie in the NICU. We hope that this episode affirms that mama trust your mom gut because you know your baby best!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
For this week’s episode, we are sharing a liturgy that Kayla Craig wrote specifically for NICU families back in October of 2020! For the mamas in our sisterhood that observe Easter and/or have a faith in Jesus, we wanted to offer this liturgy again to you.
Whether you are in or out of the NICU, you are never ever alone.
To listen to the episode we recorded with her about honest faith, you can listen here!
Kayla Craigis a writer and podcast producer who believes in the power of story. She writes modern prayers for moms and dads at Liturgies for Parents and her book is forthcoming with Tyndale in 2021. Kayla co-founded and hosts Upside Down Podcast, a place for conversations on faith and justice.
Kayla loves deep mugs of coffee, deeper belly laughs, and even deeper questions. She and her pastor-husband Jonny live in Iowa, where they’re raising four young kids who joined their family via birth and adoption. She has two fluffy dogs and spends too much time on Instagram.
Her most recent published essays are in This Is Motherhood: A Motherly Collection of Reflections + Practices and Rally: Litanies for the Lovers of Jesus and Justice and her new book is now available for pre-order!To get connected with DNM:
Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode we have the opportunity to have a conversation with the one and only Anese of The Breakthrough Mama! Not only is she a licensed maternal mental health specialist, but she is also a NICU mama herself who has dedicated her practice to serving and empowering high-risk pregnancy mamas and NICU mamas. Because safety and feeling grounded are necessary to begin the process of healing, this episode is dedicated to the topic of establishing safety within our bodies.
In this episode we cover:
- What are some ways that trauma can reveal itself in the body, and how can we listen to what our bodies are telling us?
- What does it mean to be grounded and how can we do this when we are feeling triggered or unsafe?
- What does it feel like to feel safe in the body? What does it feel like to not feel safe in the body? What is one way a mom can find safety in her body?
- How can a NICU mom seeking out therapy advocate and find a qualified provider in her area that is willing to do the hard inner work?
We hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone and also gently reminds you that just because something is common, doesn’t mean it has to be your standard. You are worthy of the time and investment it takes to heal.
Anese Barnett is a veteran NICU mama to a now rambunctious toddler who is the inspiration for her work and research. She is a perinatal mental health therapist and clinical psychology doctoral student who is passionate about improving mommy's mental health, especially for those experiencing high-risk pregnancy and the NICU. Anese uses her personal and professional experiences to help NICU mamas and women with high-risk pregnancy find the healing, peace, and joy they deserve. Her dream is to see every NICU in this country equipped with the necessary psychological resources to help parents journey through the unexpected.
To get connected with Anese:
Website | Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
To listen, you can find us on iTunes or Spotify, or by clicking the link below!
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s podcast episode, we have the opportunity to talk with Sally! Not only is Sally a mama to a fabulous toddler, but she also gave birth to quadruplets who spent a total of 7 weeks in the NICU. Throughout the episode we hear about her infertility journey with their firstborn, what her pregnancy, delivery, and NICU journey was like with the quads, and what life at home looks like for them today. We hope Sally’s joyful personality brings you joy wherever you are listening today!
To listen to Taylor’s episode mentioned in the episode, click here!
To listen to Kristi’s episode mentioned in the episode, click here for part 1 and here for part 2!
To get connected with Sally:
Fargo Quads Blog
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week's episode is a very special episode! Not only do we have our beloved team member Vilma as a guest guest co-host, but this is also a Mamas Call In episode! At the end of this episode you will have the opportunity to hear from a couple of amazing NICU mamas on how they have grown throughout this past pandemic year.
We asked Vilma to share in this episode because as a NICU mama of a medically complex child, her and her family found themselves not only navigating the unknown waters of the pandemic, but also navigating how to protect their son. She shares openly and honestly about the triggers she faced, how they navigated therapies and appointments moving virtual, and also how this year also gave their family an opportunity to heal.
As we reflect on one year of this pandemic, we want to affirm again just how brave and courageous you are. This year has tested many of us in ways we could have never imagined or prepared for, and we are so very proud of this sisterhood for getting through it. Even in extreme measures of isolation - know that mama you are never alone.
To hear part 1 of Vilma's NICU journey:
S2 EP 09 | Vilma
To listen to Parijat Deshpande's interview mentioned in the episode:
S2 EP 03 | NICU Trauma in the Time of COVID-10 with Parijat Deshpande
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Carrita gave birth to her son Isaac at 26 weeks. They spent 116 days in the NICU with additional PICU stays after discharge. It was on their NICU journey that Carrita felt that she discovered her purpose. Since being home, it has been a passion of hers to inspire and uplift other NICU families by sharing their story!
We hope this episode reminds you that mama, you know your baby best.
To get connected with Carrita:
Instagram | Book
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Welcome to Part 2 of Nicole’s NICU journey! Nicole delivered mono-di twin girls, Harper and Avery, at 26 weeks and 3 days. Tragically, Avery was lost at 15 days old due to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Part 2 is all about Harper’s miraculous 66 day NICU journey, what life after loss has looked like for Nicole and her family, and also how to love a close friend or loved one who has experienced infant loss.
We hope this episode reminds loss mamas and twin loss mama everywhere that you are never alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
** This episode does cover infant loss, and if that may be a trigger for you, we ask that you listen to this episode in an environment that you feel safe and/or at a time when you feel ready.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On today’s episode, we have the honor of hearing part 1 of Nicole’s NICU journey! Nicole delivered mono-di twin girls at 26 weeks and 3 days. Her pregnancy came with many complications due to her small stature and Avery (Twin B) had IUGR and low amniotic fluid. Because of this, they were in and out of the hospital for extra monitoring of Avery’s growth and fluid levels.
Just before reaching 26 weeks, Nicole was admitted to the hospital for the 3rd time for suspected placental abruption. After 10 days, she spiked a fever and was rushed in for an emergency c-section, where Harper (1 lb 15 oz) and Avery (1 lb 7 oz) were born. Both girls seem to make great strides in breathing, but Avery started to struggle with feeds, and tragically sweet Avery was lost at 15 days old to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).
Nicole and her husband navigated their grief for Avery while fighting daily for their surviving twin, Harper, whose stay in the NICU lasted 66 days. Nicole is an advocate and beacon of light for loss mamas and twinless twin families everywhere. The way in which she loves and honors her girls each day is truly beautiful.
We hope this episode reminds loss mamas and twin loss mama everywhere that you are never alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
** This episode does cover infant loss, and if that may be a trigger for you, we ask that you listen to this episode in an environment that you feel safe and/or at a time when you feel ready.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Welcome to part 2 of our sex after birth and/or NICU trauma series! On this week's episode we talk exclusively about the physical aspects of healing after trauma with physical therapist Jill Ehrmantraut of Apex Wellness!
In this episode we cover:
- What is the pelvic floor?
- Is pain during sex normal? If not, what can we do to treat it?
- What are the different changes physically that occur within the body with a vaginal delivery vs a cesarean delivery?
- When is too late to receive therapy from a physical therapist? (Hint - it’s never too late!)
- Where in our bodies do we hold trauma? Is an emotional response during therapy normal?
We hope this episodes offers insight into the physical aspects of healing after birth and/or NICU trauma. Your body has done so much to protect you, and unlocking therapies like physical therapy can be a wonderful asset in your healing journey.
Resources mentioned in episode:
For the Academy of Pelvic Health PT “Find a PT”
Herman and Wallace Find a Pelvic Health Practitioner
Jill is a Board-Certified Women’s Health Clinical Specialist (WCS) with advanced training in pelvic rehabilitation for females, males and children. Jill graduated with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND in 2010. She has advanced training in the treatment of pelvic pain, pregnancy and post-partum issues, urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, constipation, and neurogenic bladder in women, men, and children. She also has years of experience in treating female pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor dysfunction during or after cancer treatment, pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction, and post prostatectomy incontinence in males. She is the second physical therapist in the state of North Dakota to obtain a Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy. Jill is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and a part of the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. She is also certified in Functional Dry Needling Level 1 and Pelvic Floor dry needling/Level 2.
To get connected with Jill:
Website | Instagram
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Yep, you read the title of this episode right! On this week's episode, we are talking about sex. Specifically sex after NICU and/or birth trauma. And we couldn't think of a more compassionate voice to chat about this with than the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling.
It's no secret that so many things shift and change in our bodies both physically and emotionally postpartum. Add on a traumatic birth and/or traumatic NICU stay, and your feelings and desires for and about sex may have changed drastically. But you are not alone in those feelings mama, in fact it's very normal!
In this episode we cover:
- What changes emotionally in our bodies postpartum?
- Is it normal to not want to have sex anymore, and is there anything we can do to desire to have sex again?
- How can we be present in sex without worrying or fearing a potential pregnancy?
- How can we communicate our honest concerns with our partner?
- What are some practical ways we can connect with our partner that make sex enjoyable again?
We hope this episode reminds you that you are not alone and also gently reminds you that sex with your partner is designed to be pleasurable and fun. It may take time to heal and get there - but you can and you will.
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
If you’ve been listening to our podcast or following along with us on social media, you know that we love the practice of self-compassion! Which is why we are excited to share an episode talking about self-compassion and our inner narrative with Melissa Dahl with Mindful Healing and Consulting!
In this episode we cover:
- What is the practice of self-compassion and how can we implement it in our daily lives?
- What role does safety play as we begin to process our trauma?
- Conversational examples of simple narrative shifts we can speak to ourselves in anxious moments
We hope that this episode offers some tangible narrative shifts to implement to better honor your heart as you heal both in and out of the NICU. You are never alone!
To learn more about Kristin Neff’s self-compassion work and teaching mentioned in the episode:
Website | Facebook
About Melissa Dahl, MS, LPCC, CCMHC:
Melissa Dahl is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, who specializes in Women’s Mental Health. She has dedicated a portion of her practice to work in Women’s Maternal Health. She is a trained teacher of Mindful Self-Compassion. She is also a strong advocate for education and resources in the community as well as self-compassion and vulnerability as tools for healing. She is the owner of Mindful Healing & Consulting.
To get connected with Melissa:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This episode is a long time coming! On September 25th, 2019 we heard part 1 of Ava’s miraculous 202 day NICU journey. And as soon as we scheduled a recording date for part 2, miss Ava was discharged from the NICU! So on today’s episode we have the opportunity to hear from Kristi about the remainder of Ava’s NICU stay, as well as what the transition to life at home looked like for their family of 6.
We also have the opportunity to thank Bell Bank publicly for their generous donation through their Pay It Forward Program! We were honored to receive Kristi’s funds for our Walking Letter of Hope Day, and we are forever grateful for their generosity and belief in Dear NICU Mama.
For Kristi’s Part 1 episode, click here!
To learn more about Bell Bank’s pay it forward program, click here!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
It's the final Dear NICU Mama podcast episode of 2020! On this week’s episode we not only have a roundtable discussion reflecting on each of our personal journeys in 2020, but we also introduce the one and only Karla! Karla is our editorial assistant and one of our most recent team members. We love her a lot and are excited to officially introduce her to you all here!
As we reflect on 2020, we are ultimately so grateful for each and every one of you. Thank you for being here with us and for being apart of this remarkable sisterhood! We are so excited for 2021 and cannot wait for the stories and episodes to come.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Oh, boundaries. We all know we need them, but setting and defining them can feel really complicated! Especially when we are setting boundaries with the people we love most in our lives.
As we approach another holiday, we wanted to sure to have an open and honest conversation about boundaries that not only offers insight into what healthy boundaries can look like, but also offers helpful tools on how to implement these boundaries. We couldn't think of a better guest and teacher to have share about this on our podcast than the one and only Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling!
In this episode we cover:
- What a healthy boundary is and how do define what a healthy boundary is for your family
- How to define and set these boundaries with loved ones without damaging the relationship
- How to navigate boundaries when your partner's boundaries may differ
- Conversational examples of how to verbally have the discussion about boundaries with family and close friends
Whether you are new to setting boundaries or have been doing this for years, we hope that this podcast affirms you and gives you courage as you define what healthy boundaries are for your family!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the honor of chatting with Ebony Ford! Ebony Ford is a native of the Washington D.C. area, a wife, and a preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome survivor. She is also the proud mother of 26-weeker micropreemie Reign Victoria who was born weighing 1lb 15 oz, spent 80 days in the NICU, and is currently REIGNING over her battle with Pulmonary Fibromatosis.
Both Ebony and Reign are ambassadors for March of Dimes and were featured in their "It's Not Fine" Campaign, a national commercial and print ad campaign aiming to improve awareness of the racial disparities as well as the maternal and infant mortality rates in the United States. Her sole mission in sharing her story is to ensure that no other NICU parent feels alone knows that they too can turn tragedy into triumph.
In this episode, Ebony shares about pregnancy after loss, her near death experience with preeclampsia and HELLP, her journey in the NICU with Reign and what it taught her, what she learned about advocating for not only her health and care but also Reign’s health and care, and an honest look into medically complex motherhood.
To connect with Ebony, you can find her on Instagram or by heading to her website!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Welcome to season three of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! In this episode we chat all about our recent event, our growing team, and also what our hope and vision is for season three.
It is truly an honor to share the stories and journeys of remarkable NICU mamas everywhere, and we can't believe get to be apart of this beautiful sisterhood. Thank you for your continued support and belief in the mission of Dear NICU Mama! We are beyond grateful.
As always mama, you are never ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
We are officially at the end of Season 2! And for our closing episode, we wanted to share the episode we recorded with Parijat Deshpande back in March. (Doesn’t that seem like a year ago?!) Many NICU mamas are feeling especially triggered during this pandemic, and throughout this episode we talk about why that may be and how we can we process through these triggers.
We also wanted to share this episode in closing because Parijat is the keynote speaker of our November event THIS WEEKEND! If you are on the fence about registering and long to learn more about Parijat and her practice, this episode is a great episode to do just that.
For links to tickets, click here!
From March, 2020:
Excessive hand washing, fear of germs, social distancing and isolation... sound familiar? It may be because there are some uncanny similarities between the recent COVID-19 regulations and NICU regulations. And because of these similarities, we wanted to bring awareness to the fact that this can all be very triggering for NICU mamas.
We are so honored to have high risk pregnancy specialist and trauma professional Parijat Desphande on the podcast to share about how our bodies and minds may be responding during this unprecedented time. This episode is packed with incredible amounts of insight and immense amounts of HOPE.
Parijat Deshpande is the leading high-risk pregnancy specialist, trauma professional, speaker and author who teaches women how to deactivate their stress response before, during and after a high-risk pregnancy so they can give their baby a strong start to life. Her unique approach has served hundreds of women to manage pregnancy complications and reclaim safety and trust in their bodies that they thought was eroded forever. Parijat is the author of bestselling book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy. She is also the host of the popular podcast Delivering Miracles®, that discusses the real, raw side of family-building including infertility, loss, high-risk pregnancy, bed rest, prematurity and healing once baby comes home.
To get connected with Parijat Deshpande:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Delivering Miracles® Podcast | Healing Hearts Program
Parijat's Book, Pregnancy Brain - Available on Kindle and paperback on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. - https://parijatdeshpande.lpages.co/pregnancybrain/
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
It's not uncommon these days to see the word trigger laced throughout our social media feeds. And while PTSD is not often associated with new motherhood or NICU motherhood, it is very much a real reality that we are hoping to shed some light on today. (Hint: It is not as scary as it sounds!)
In this episode we have a conversation with the one and only Natalie Retier with Prairieland Counseling Services. We have had the opportunity to chat with her on on a few of our podcast episodes, and we are always so grateful for her empathetic and compassionate voice when talking about harder and weightier topics in motherhood.
Throughout the episode we cover:
• What are triggers and what can they look/feel like?
• What is the value of seeing a licensed and trusted provider and how to find one?
• How can we implement self-compassion vs shame when we experience a trigger?
No matter where you are in your healing journey, you are never alone.
For the link to Postpartum International mentioned in the episode, head to: https://www.postpartum.net/
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s episode, we have the opportunity to sit down with Ashley, one of the co-founders of Dear NICU Mama, and the co-host of the Dear NICU Mama, podcast!
After a high-risk pregnancy, Ashley developed severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome resulting in a placental abruption. Her son Silas was born via an emergency c-section at 28 weeks and spent a total of 87 days in the NICU with one hospital transfer. In this episode, she shares about her high risk pregnancy, a heart diagnosis, the emergency delivery of Silas, and some of the wins and setbacks of his NICU stay.
We hope that this episode encourages any other high-risk NICU mamas that you are not alone!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week’s podcast is an episode dedicated to announcing a VERY FUN announcement! 🥳 We are beyond excited to announce that on Saturday November 7th 2020 at 4PM CT, we will be hosting our very first ever virtual live event sponsored by Gate City Bank and designed specifically for current and past NICU mamas!
Over the past few months, our team has been dreaming up ways that we can create opportunities for NICU mamas around the world to connect with each other. And while we would love to meet together in person, we are thrilled to be able to offer “The Hope of Healing After NICU” event virtually! Featuring renowned high-risk pregnancy specialist, author, speaker, and NICU mama, Parijat Desphande as our keynote speaker, this special event will offer the opportunity to learn about trauma after the NICU, meet NICU mamas from around the world, and discover the hope of healing.
In this episode we cover event and registration details, what is included in the purchase of a ticket, and what a NICU mama attending can expect! To listen to the previous episode with Parijat mentioned in the episode, click here!
For tickets and more information, click here or head to www.dearnicumama.com/events! We’d love to have YOU join us! 💕
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
As we embark into the month of October, we wanted to be intentional to share a message of hope and healing for any weary mamas. And while we have done many episodes on mindfulness, we have not yet had the chance to do an episode about faith in the NICU. Which is why we are so honored to have had the opportunity to have an honest talk with Kayla Craig, founder of Liturgy for Parents!
For many NICU mamas of faith, the NICU experience can leave us with more questions than answers about prayer and about God. How do I pray when I can barely catch my breath? Is He with me in this season and in this pain?
On this episode we have the opportunity to hear about Kayla’s honest faith journey, and how her faith has grown and evolved after her daughter Lizzie fought for her life in the PICU and has existing medical complexities. We also chat about what it looks like to pray honest prayers and how reading liturgies can be a really great place to start when we do not have the words to pray.
We are so excited to have you tune into this episode with us, and to also hear the liturgy she wrote exclusively for NICU mamas.
Kayla Craigis a writer and podcast producer who believes in the power of story. She writes modern prayers for moms and dads at Liturgies for Parents and her book is forthcoming with Tyndale in 2021. Kayla co-founded and hosts Upside Down Podcast, a place for conversations on faith and justice.
Kayla loves deep mugs of coffee, deeper belly laughs, and even deeper questions. She and her pastor-husband Jonny live in Iowa, where they’re raising four young kids who joined their family via birth and adoption. She has two fluffy dogs and spends too much time on Instagram.
Her most recent published essays are in This Is Motherhood: A Motherly Collection of Reflections + Practices and Rally: Litanies for the Lovers of Jesus and Justice.
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Today’s episode is a real treat because it is PART TWO of Brandi’s motherhood journey! Part one was the story and miraculous life of Declan and also Brandi's diagnosis and recovery of colon cancer. Part two is all about the pregnancy, delivery, and NICU journey of her son Maddex! On Christmas morning, Brandi found out that she was pregnant with Maddex. Because of her surprise and early delivery with Declan, she had a cerclage placed and was monitored closely throughout her pregnancy.
Maddex made his entrance to the world at 27 weeks and weighed 2lbs 4oz at birth. His NICU stay was a total of 61 days with no major complications, however because he was born in the time of the pandemic, Brandi and her husband navigated the continual changes of hospital regulations and unknowns of the pandemic.
In this episode, Brandi shares about pregnancy after loss, processing through the trauma of the NICU, learning to forgive your body, and also what it was like navigating the NICU journey in the midst of a pandemic. We say it often, but pandemic NICU mamas are our heroes!
To get connected with DNM:
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On this week’s episode, we have the honor of hearing Part 1 of Brandi’s motherhood journey and about the life of her son, Declan. Declan was born at 22 weeks 4 days gestation and because the hospital that Brandi delivered at did not consider viability until 24 weeks, no interventions were made.
She shares openly and honestly about the experience of losing her son, how she has grieved and healed, the importance of listening to your body, and how his life quite honestly saved her own. There are so many beautiful layers to her story which is why there will be two parts!
We hope this episode reminds any Angel mamas, that you are never ever alone.
To get connected with DNM:
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For NICU mothers considering having more of their own children, it's not uncommon to wonder, "Will this all happen again?" "Is there anything I can do differently?" And while we do not have a crystal ball to predict the future, we can step away from our google searches and sit down with trusted medical professionals to ask the good and sometimes hard questions.
For this week's episode, we had the opportunity to have a conversation with high-risk pregnancy expert, Dr. Stefanie Gefroh Ellison, regarding high-risk pregnancy and pregnancy after NICU. Being a NICU mama herself, she responded to each question with equal parts empathy and equal parts sound medical wisdom. Her responses are meant to be used as a starting point of conversation to have with your OB or trusted physician!
In this episode we cover:
- What qualifies a pregnancy to be “high-risk”?
- If I had a NICU stay in a previous pregnancy, will it happen again?
- What questions can I ask my medical provider to better prepare as we grow our family?
- What role do statistics play in determining the journey of a future pregnancy?
We hope that this episode offers some wisdom and encouragement on all things regrading pregnancy after NICU. You are never alone, mama!
This podcast episode is not an attempt to practice medicine or provide medical advice. All information, content, and material on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Last week was Breastfeeding Awareness Week, so we thought it would be fun to do a round table discussion about our breastfeeding experiences! Co-hosts of the Dear NICU Mama, podcast Martha and Ashley, are joined by the the one and only DNM mama ambassador Kendra to share a bit about each of their breastfeeding journeys.
In this episode we cover the breastfeeding experience of Angel mamas, the experience of your baby requiring additional feeding assistance through a g-tube, the roadblocks of pumping like mastitis, the importance of taking care of your mental health, the weaning experience, and more.
We hope that this episode validates you in your own breastfeeding journey, and reminds you of your STRENGTH! Fed really is best mama.
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Because the letters that mamas write in are so remarkable, we wanted to be able to offer them in another tangible way. And what better way than to have them read aloud here on the podcast? Our first audible letter is read by the one and only Jakarta. If you'd like to see photos of their journey in the NICU and how far they have come today, we have her letter linked at the bottom of the description. We hope that her letter offers immense amounts of hope to you today!
*"Dear NICU Mama,
When you feel alone, remember it is not your fault. Being a NICU mama is isolating. This was not the path we set out on or ever imagined. It's definitely not the path we would have chosen for our children. We as mothers were not meant to love our babies through the hard plastic walls of an incubator, wait days or weeks to hold them, or watch them fight for their life. The ideal image of pregnancy and birth has been sold to us our entire life, and most of us never knew any different. Straying from these images makes us feel alone.*
It's not your fault it didn’t go the way it should have, or how you dreamed for it to go. Not being able to relate to mamas without a NICU stay isn’t your fault. Explaining why your child came early and isn't home isn’t your fault. You think of all the things you wish you would have done differently or you blame yourself. But mama, it is not your fault and you are not alone.
There is nothing we wouldn't do for our NICU baby and sometimes that makes you feel alone. The hours spent at their bedside wishing for them to come home. The beeps of the machines that now take over your dreams. Even when you go through those restless nights away from your little one worried that you'll get a call from the NICU, you are not alone.
*When your child is re-hospitalized, we stand with you. When you feel lonely in a crowd of people, we stand with you. When you hold back tears, we stand with you. While you hold your breath waiting for good news, we stand with you. While you walk with your head held down, we stand with you. Your story is that of triumphs and defeats, but it is the greatest story ever told. Hold your head high for you are strong. You are a NICU mama and your story will move mountains.”
Love,
Jakarta*For more of Jakarta + August's NICU journey, head to: www.dearnicumama.com/blog/love-jakartaTo get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
We talk about it often on our social media, but the bond between two NICU sisters is an unmatched bond. And today we have the honor of hearing the story behind the extraordinary friendship of Charleen and Lizzie!
One day while in the NICU with her daughter Emerson, Charleen noticed that another preemie baby had been born. Because she wanted this new NICU mom to know that she was never alone, Charleen wrote Lizzie a letter. Little did they both know that this letter would change their lives forever!
Charleen and Lizzie's friendship encompasses the power and beauty of what a NICU sisterhood can look like, and their interview is full of honesty and vulnerability. We hope that their story encourages any mamas listening to take the leap to reach out and befriend another NICU mama! And if you're looking for where some sisters are? The DNM Sisterhood is a great place to start.<3
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Our podcast episode for you this week is a mini episode! And during this time of COVID, we wanted to offer a self-compassion centered mindfulness exercise that any mama can do in or out of the NICU.
Certified yoga and mindfulness instructor Stephanie Ashem leads us through a 10 minute mindfulness exercise called, “The Compassionate Friend”, that is modeled after a similar exercise created by self-compassion leaders and teachers Kristin Neff and Chris Germer. We hope that this mini episode offers a moment of peace for your heart and is an episode that can continually be referred back to when you need to extend self-compassion to that beautiful soul of yours.
Steph Asheim is a certified yoga instructor and is trained in mindfulness. Steph's first child, Kaitlyn (now 14), spent some time in the NICU after Steph spent 9 weeks in the hospital awaiting Kaitlyn's arrival. Although she didn't practice yoga/mindfulness during that time, Steph realizes how valuable these tools could have been and has used them consistently while raising Kaitlyn and her younger daughter Carissa.
For more resources, exercises, and information regarding self-compassion: www.self-compassion.org
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On today's podcast episode, we have the opportunity to hear from the one and only, Vilma! The NICU journey of her son Bradley is full of great hope and strength. Vilma delivered her son via an emergency c-section at 38weeks and 5 days. Her pregnancy leading up to the delivery was smooth and by the book, so to have her son rushed away to the NICU was very unexpected. After 54 days in the NICU including one hospital transfer, Bradley received a diagnosis of Transient Hyperinsulinemia and Diffused White Matter Injury to his brain. Both Vilma and her husband Jose have committed their lives to being the best advocates and parents for Bradley that they can possibly be, and believe us when we say that it is very evident throughout this episode!
We hope that this episode offers hope to any full-term NICU mamas or NICU mamas currently waiting for a diagnosis. You are never ever alone. <3
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
In an effort to celebrate Father's Day and NICU dads everywhere, we have a very special podcast episode to share with you all this week! It's no secret that NICU mamas and NICU dads process, heal, and work through the trauma of a NICU journey differently. And while we hope to eventually do an episode with a more scientific/emotional response to what those differences often times look like, we wanted to begin with a very conversational/interview-style episode featuring some some pretty incredible NICU dads. (AKA our HUBBIES!)
We are so grateful for their vulnerability, and we hope that this episode is an episode that couples can listen to together, or that a NICU dad can listen to to feel less isolated and less alone. Pull up a chair as we have a front row seat into the hearts of Ryan, Zach, and Tyler!
Happy Father's Day, NICU dads!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month! And for today’s episode, we have the opportunity to sit down with Rebekah Tompkins, MD to chat about not only preeclampsia, but also HELLP Syndrome. Rebekah Tompkins not only specializes in high-risk pregnancy, but she personally experienced preeclampsia, HELLP, and a NICU stay with her firstborn son. Not only does she offer sound doctrine on the medical and physical effects of preeclampsia, but she also offers the firsthand perspective of journeying through this herself. We are so grateful for the wisdom and empathy that she brings to this conversation!
In this episode we cover:
- What is preeclampsia?
- What is HELLP and how is it different than preeclampsia?
- If I developed preeclampsia in my previous pregnancy, how likely am I to develop it again in future pregnancies? Is there anything I can do to prevent preeclampsia from reoccurring?
- Are there any additional health risks for either mom or baby associated with preeclampsia after birth?
We hope that this episode offers some sound wisdom on all things regrading preeclampsia, and reminds you once again of how miraculous both you and your little one are. You are a survivor, mama!
To get connected with Sanford Health Women’s:
Website
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week’s Dear NICU Mama podcast is dedicated to the second half of Justina’s journey. After only a few months of grieving their son, Carter, Justina and her husband were shocked to discovered that she was pregnant again, six months before they planned on trying. They guarded their hearts through the rollercoaster emotions of a high-risk pregnancy, and at 29 weeks welcomed Aron.
In this episode, Justina shares her perspective and wisdom on how to endure high-risk pregnancy after loss, what it’s like to relive moments in the NICU, and how to grieve and love at the same time.
To get connected with Carter's Cause:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
For some NICU Mamas, the journey doesn't end with homecoming. In this episode of the Dear NICU Mama podcast, we interview Justina Oldehoff, mother of two NICU babies and founder of Carter's Cause, a resource for families in the NICU and those who've suffered infant loss.
Justina and her husband, Dan, endured the unimaginable when their precious son, Carter, was born at 24 weeks and 2 days. Although Carter and his medical team fought bravely, he lived only three days. Justina bravely honors his life by sharing his story with us here, as well as wisdom and encouragement for those mothers who are grieving a child.
Carter's Cause is on a mission to comfort and support to those going through one of life's most unimaginable events. Through Carter's story, they provide resources to guide parents grieving from infant loss, parents living the NICU journey, as well as the family and friends who form their support group.
To get connected with Carter's Cause:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
NICU Mamas, we see you. We know that things like social isolation and “quarantine” are not new for you and your family. Which is why we hope that this episode offers some new and fun ideas to interact and bond with your NICU grad with Kindermusik!
This past month, Chaycie reached out to us and conveyed how she wanted to give back to our DNM Sisterhood during this time of COVID. Dear NICU Mama is partnering with Kindermusik and instructor Chaycie Kramer to offer UNLIMITED virtual classes this month for a discounted flat fee of $60! Chaycie is happy to customize payment plans and scholarships are available too! What’s even better? Chaycie will be (based on interest/availability) creating Kindermusik classes JUST for NICU mamas and kiddos.
Kindermusik is an international music and movement curriculum that has been researching childhood development for over 40 years. Kindermusik is designed to celebrate, teach, reduce stress, and provide more fellowship with an abundance of laughter, fun and positivity for these mamas and their babies.
For the FREE Demo Class happening Friday, April 17th at 10:15 AM CT:
Zoom Link: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/4125483521
Meeting ID: 412 548 3521
Password: KMwithCK
Here we go Round the Mulberry Bush Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFrEVhOPwvc
A bio from Chaycie: “I graduated from Concordia College in 2000 with my B.M. in Music Performance on saxophone and bassoon. After graduation, I married my 'college sweetheart' and moved out east to get my Master's in Music Performance from The Boston Conservatory. We moved back to the Fargo-Moorhead area in 2003 when I was invited to teach at Concordia and MSUM. I have been teaching in the area ever since!
I’ve been teaching Kindermusik since 2009, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. In addition, I teach private lessons on saxophone and bassoon, as well as adapted music lessons to children with special needs. I also play bassoon in the FM Symphony when the music calls for three, so come to a concert and you just may see me up there!
I've also been awarded Maestro Status through Kindermusik, which is only for the top 10% of all educators based on excellent relationships and family retention, and was nominated for YWCA's Women of the Year in 2018.
My husband, Jason, and I have two girls; McKenna is now 14 and Karsen is 10. Such wonderful blessings."
To get connected with Chaycie + Kindermusik:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Excessive hand washing, fear of germs, social distancing and isolation... sound familiar? It may be because there are some uncanny similarities between the recent COVID-19 regulations and NICU regulations. And because of these similarities, we wanted to bring awareness to the fact that this can all be very triggering for NICU mamas.
We are so honored to have high risk pregnancy specialist and trauma professional Parijat Desphande on the podcast to share about how our bodies and minds may be responding during this unprecedented time. This episode is packed with incredible amounts of insight and immense amounts of HOPE.
Parijat Deshpande is the leading high-risk pregnancy specialist, trauma professional, speaker and author who teaches women how to deactivate their stress response before, during and after a high-risk pregnancy so they can give their baby a strong start to life. Her unique approach has served hundreds of women to manage pregnancy complications and reclaim safety and trust in their bodies that they thought was eroded forever. Parijat is the author of bestselling book Pregnancy Brain: A Mind-Body Approach to Stress Management During a High-Risk Pregnancy. She is also the host of the popular podcast Delivering Miracles®, that discusses the real, raw side of family-building including infertility, loss, high-risk pregnancy, bed rest, prematurity and healing once baby comes home.
To get connected with Parijat Deshpande:
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Delivering Miracles® Podcast | Healing Hearts Program
Parijat's Book, Pregnancy Brain - Available on Kindle and paperback on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. - https://parijatdeshpande.lpages.co/pregnancybrain/
To get connected with DNM:
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Part 2 of our Let's Talk About Postpartum series is officially here! And we are so excited to be sharing it with you all today. As we talked about in part one, so much changes in our bodies and in our minds after having a baby. Especially for NICU mothers as they are navigating the grief and trauma that often times accompanies a NICU stay. But thankfully, there are tools and practices we can implement to guide us as we heal and as we grow post NICU. We hope that Part 2 offers you so much hope as you embark on your own healing journey. You are never alone!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
We all know that our bodies change after we have a baby. But what happens to our minds? For the month of February we focused on all things NICU Postpartum and how we can learn to love and embrace our bodies. We asked Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling to share her wisdom regarding NICU postpartum, the changes that our minds undergo when they experience trauma, and how we can heal and grow post NICU.
Part 1 focuses on the "science" of trauma and what is really going on in our minds and in our bodies. Hint - there's a LOT!
Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!
To get connected with Natalie:
Website | Instagram | Facebook
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
For this week’s episode, we share about some of our favorite moments from 2019 as well as cast some vision for 2020! Looking back on 2019, we are overwhelmed with gratitude. We cannot say thank you enough for your support and love as we continue to build and grow our mission of loving and connecting NICU moms. It truly is our honor to tell and celebrate the stories of some of the strongest women in the world. We cannot wait to see where 2020 takes us! We are so grateful for YOU.To partner with our mission: www.dearnicumama.com/giveTo get connected with DNM:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Today’s podcast episode features two mamas who had not one, not two, but THREE babies in the NICU! Cassie + Katie both had triplets in the NICU, and while their stories are different and unique, their shared experience of having triplets has bonded them as very close friends. Throughout this episode we have the opportunity to hear about each other their pregnancies, births, and NICU journeys and how they find balance and routine with their busy families!Cassie’s Story: Cassie’s triplets were born at 26+2 via emergency c section due to baby A’s water breaking. Cora was 2.3 pounds, Cole was 2.1 pounds, and Carter was 2.2 pounds. They came home in birth order at 88, 103 and 120 days.Katie's Story: Katie’s triplets were born 31 weeks and 2 days Their length of stay was 53 days for Myer and Beck, and 54 days for Luca!For photos and more details from their journey: https://www.dearnicumama.com/blog/dearnicumamapodcastep15For resources for multiples: Triplet Recycling on FB: Good for finding all things kids Local Multiples FB groups and Mothers of Triplets In xxxx yearwww.instagram.com/theperfectmomTo get connected with DNM:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Full term NICU baby mamas, this episode is for you. Taylor's daughter Harper was born full term, but because she swallowed meconium she was rushed to the NICU. Taylor shares valuable insight into their 4-day NICU journey, and also how she navigated and took care of her mental health post-NICU and post-partum.After her personal NICU journey, she has had the opportunity to document and stand alongside some of her closest friends throughout their NICU journeys. Her passion for birth photography is inspiring! We are so excited to be sharing her episode with you all today, and we hope that any of you full term NICU baby mamas feel seen and heard.To follow and be connected with Taylor's Photography: http://www.taylorjanephoto.com/To get connected with DNM:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
HAPPY HOLIDAYS from us at Dear NICU Mama,! This week we are sharing another Mamas Call In episode with the question, "What are You celebrating this Holiday Season?" As any NICU mama knows, every milestone is worth celebrating - big or small! We hope you have a wonderful holiday season with loved ones, and that you feel immense amounts of peace and joy.Holiday Letter to Family: https://www.dearnicumama.com/blog/an-open-letter-to-our-families-this-holiday-seasonTo get connected with DNM:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
This week's episode is one you are going to want to save and listen to time and time again! We have the honor of sitting across from Randi Kay and chat all about self-care. However, this conversation about self-care goes much deeper than the bubble baths and face masks advertised to us on the media. Where in our bodies do we hold trauma? How do we blend both holistic and medicinal practices into our self-care routines?Taking time to care for yourself while either in the midst of trauma or processing through trauma can feel like an impossible task. But we hope that this conversation creates space to find the courage you need to care for that beautiful heart of yours. (And your #wisewomb. ;)) To get connected with Randi Kay:Website: http://www.naturallyrandikay.com/Seasonal Healing Course: http://www.naturallyrandikay.com/seasonalhealing?fbclid=IwAR1YzKTfGZzAmH2EN1wX9KnyBnSubj9E8i77hF9ocDBiih6ym0btxNGUHKcInstagram: www.instagram.com/naturallyrandikayPodcast: http://www.naturallyrandikay.com/podcastTo get connected with DNM:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING NICU MAMAS! For this week's episode we are switching it up a bit and sharing our first Mamas Call In episode! In the spirit of Thanksgiving and gratefulness, this week's question was, "What are you Grateful For?" We are so grateful to the mamas that called in and shared, and are so excited to be sharing this episode with you today.To get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
We are celebrating and honoring a few different awarenesses for the month of November, one of them being Pulmonary Hypertension! On today’s episode we hear from Heidi as she shares about her daughter Emilee’s journey with PH. Emilee was born full term, 2 days late actually. She went into distress during labor and Heidi was rushed for an emergency c/s. Upon delivery Emilee passed her first apgar test, but then quickly went downhill and was then rushed to NICU. Her health continued to go downhill and she was eventually diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). They went home together at 1 1/2 months. When Emilee was 17 1/2 months she got pneumonia which landed her in the hospital, and this is when they found out her PH was there. She was then placed on oxygen as therapy for her lungs and started oral medicine.They try not to let PH stop us or her so they make sure to go to the lake, swim, zoo's, church, play dates, parks, school, and more! Emilee even wants to be a cardiologist to help other kids like her when she grows up :) We’re excited to be sharing their story with you today!For more info about PH: https://phassociation.org/To get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
On this week’s podcast episode we have the honor of hearing the story of Mandy’s son Elliot’s NICU journey. Elliot was born at 26 weeks, weighed 1 pound 15 oz at birth, and had a NICU stay of 104 days. Mandy is a single mother, and with the support of her family and church community, she has a lot of wisdom to share about how important it is to ask for help.This episode is also unique because Mandy met Kendra, one of our core board members, while in the NICU! So we also have the chance to hear about how they met and how their friendship blossomed. To this day they are very close friends and continue to support and cheer each other on as they navigate life post NICU!To get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
Let's talk about cold and flu season! On today's podcast episode, we have the opportunity to sit down with a very well-known and respected pediatrician in the Fargo-Moorhead area, Dr. Stephanie Hanson with Sanford Health. Dr. Hanson has 11 years of pediatric experience, and in her practice has seen many NICU grads come through her clinic. Cold and flu season is a scary topic for any new mother, but for many NICU mothers there is an added element of fear as their babies may have compromised immune systems. So today we wanted to take the opportunity to share some practical information regarding cold and flu season from a licensed and experienced medical professional! We talk about what the differences are between the flu and RSV, why the flu shot is important, practical ways you can protect your baby if you go out in public, and more.We hope that this episode eases some of your fears, gets you away from those midnight google searches, and reminds you that YOU ARE YOUR BABY'S BEST ADVOCATE. You got this mama!Sanford Health: www.sanfordhealth.orgTo get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
32 years ago, Debbie's daughter Noelle was born at 28 weeks and had a stay of exactly one month. Except this wasn't the type of NICU journey that many new NICU mothers experience today. Imagine a NICU journey where things like kangaroo care and online support groups didn't exist, and you have a small glimpse into Debbie's journey.We have the honor of not only hearing about Debbie and Noelle's journey in the NICU, but we also have the honor of hearing about the life of their son John who was born at 25 weeks and lived one day. Debbie's strength as a mother is truly remarkable, and we are so honored to share her story with you today!To get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)
October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month! And on today’s episode, we have the honor of hearing from Michele as she shares about her son Connor’s NICU stay. Michele delivered Connor at 34 weeks, and upon delivery and the 24 hour well-check, the doctors let Michele and her husband know that Connor had Down Syndrome.We have the opportunity to not only hear about his NICU journey, but also what it was like for their family to receive the diagnosis. She also shares some beautiful encouragement that she would give to any other mama whose child recently has been diagnosed!For resources mentioned in the podcast episode and more: DSDN: https://www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org/Gigi’s Playhouse: https://gigisplayhouse.org/fargo/Hope Story: https://hopestory.org/ Jacks Basket: https://www.jacksbasket.org/ To get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
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On today's podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing the remarkable story and journey of Kristi's fourth baby, Ava. Ava was born at 23 weeks 2 days and weighed 1lb 3 oz at birth. She is currently in the NICU, has truly overcome so much already, and is defying the odds daily!This week's episode is unique for a few reasons. One being that Kristi had very "normal" pregnancies with her three other children. We have the opportunity to hear what it was like for her to have a very different high risk pregnancy and a very different birth experience with Ava. Secondly, Kristi and her husband have done everything they can to include their three other children in Ava's NICU journey. Kristi shares some tips that have worked well for her and her family, and we found them to be so valuable and helpful. We hope our episode with Kristi encourages any NICU Mamas that have had a traumatic birth, or whose babies have had longer term stays. You are not alone!To get connected:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
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This week's episode is a mini episode all about our Self-Compassion after NICU event happening at the end of September! We share our hearts behind the event, what NICU moms who are interested can expect, and why we'd love for you to be there!For more information + tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dear-nicu-mama-event-self-compassion-after-nicu-registration-66127445971Patreon Page: www.patreon.com/dearnicumamaTo get connected with DNM:Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
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For this week's episode, we have the incredible honor of sitting across the room from Natalie Reiter with Prairieland Counseling in Fargo, ND. We talk about what self-compassion looks like after NICU, and also about the different types of peri-natal mood disorders. Natalie specializes in reproductive mental health which includes peri-natal, post-partum, infertility, infant loss, paternal mental health, and the impact on couples. She has received specialized training in perinatal and post-partum mental health from Postpartum Support International, and was recently selected as the 2019 Outstanding Mental Health Counselor by the North Dakota Mental Health Counseling Association for my work with reproductive mental health. Her work as a child birth educator and her two children have sparked her passion of working with reproductive mental health!Natalie is one of our keynote speakers for our first event, Self-Compassion after NICU happening on September 28th of this year! For a link to tickets and additional info, head to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dear-nicu-mama-event-self-compassion-after-nicu-registration-66127445971Patreon Page: www.patreon.com/dearnicumamaTo get connected with DNM: Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/To get connected with Natalie: Website: www.prairielandcounselingfargo.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/prairielandcounselingFacebook: www.facebook.com/prairielandcounselingfargo
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On this week’s episode we hear the miraculous story of Martha’s rainbow baby, JJ. JJ was born at 29 weeks and spent a total of 47 days in the NICU. Martha shares both her birth experience and NICU journey in this episode, as well as what it was like for her and her husband to walk through the NICU a second time. We hope JJ’s story brings hope to any preemie NICU family!Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumamaTo get connected: Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
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For our first official episode of the Dear NICU Mama podcast, we have the honor of hearing from one of our DNM founders, Martha. In this episode, Martha shares about her son's NICU journey of three days. For the books referenced at the end of this episode: "I Will Carry You" - Angie Smith"Empty Arms" - Sherokee Isle"Ask Me His Name" - Elle WrightTo get connected: Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/** This episode does cover infant loss, and if that may be a trigger for you, we ask that you listen to this episode in an environment that you feel safe and/or at a time when you feel ready.
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Welcome to the Dear NICU Mama Podcast! In this episode, Martha and I share about the mission of DNM and what we hope it becomes. To get connected: Website: www.dearnicumama.comPrivate Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/286008085639339Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearnicumama/
Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/dearnicumama)