I’m Thankful for My Preemies
I couldn’t resist writing a tribute to my sweet preemies and my amazing husband this week in honor of Thanksgiving. As difficult as it was to have my 21-weeker and lose him shortly after his birth, and then to have a 27-weeker and spend over 3 months in the NICU, I am so thankful for my tiny miracles and for a husband who held me close through it all.
The experiences I had surrounding my son’s birth and death are very precious memories for me. The spirit that accompanied his tiny little body was so sweet and innocent that I could feel nothing but peace in his presence. I never imagined I would have such strength in the face of death, but knowing I would be with my baby again brought me great joy. I’m grateful that I was given that experience so I could mature and deepen my understanding of life and my purpose on earth.
The birth and ensuing months of my little 27-weeker brought many more difficult challenges that I had to face. I never imagined that I would look back on that time and feel a sense of homesickness, I guess, for those few months. But it was a time when I was brought down to my knees in humility, and a time when I had to draw on every bit of physical and emotional strength I had to keep going. I was given an opportunity to learn about the medical field and be a part of it in a way I never imagined I could do before. My appreciation for time with my husband and daughter was immense and I have been grateful for every single day since that I’ve been able to be together with my family and in good health. I know I will never take my children for granted and I will never take our health for granted, especially my preemie’s health.
My wonderful husband continued to be strong through everything and he has always let me cry on his shoulder. I could never have survived these experiences on my own. Even though my husband was also in pain, he made huge sacrifices so that I could be with my preemie in the NICU and he kept working to care for me and our family. I’m so thankful for the strength we have gained from the experiences we’ve shared together.
Now, take a moment. What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving season?
Affectionately Posted on
Hmmm I’m thankful for a lot. My baby was a perfect preemie. From 3 to 10 lbs in 12 weeks! It’s really a blessing in disguise I think, he’s healthy and cute and just my ideal baby. I’m thankful for all the gifts and prayers too. Never could I have imagined all the support I/ we received.
(Nov 25, 09)
We are also so thankful to have a “perfect preemie”. She was born at 25 weeks and 1 day. Beginning her little life at only 1lb 14oz, and 13 inches long …(now 23 lbs!!) spending every minute in the NICU with her for over 3 months…just watching her grow and gain strength…all the ups and downs (we had SO MANY!) …now we have our little miracle… See More and shes already a year old! She was finally taken off O2…and cleared by both her cardiologist and eye Dr. At this point has no long term effects from her extreem prematurity. SHE IS A TRUELY A BLESSING FROM GOD! My husband and I are so thankful for her, the NICU nurses and Dr’s, our families, and all who prayed for her!
(Nov 25, 09)