Yesterday was Prematurity Awareness Day.
For many of us, we are aware every day.
We are aware that babies can suddenly, unexpectedly arrive whenever they please, and not usually when we want them to.
We are aware that babies can be born prematurely, and you can expect it.
We are aware that preemies are all different, and every day makes a huge difference.
We are aware that preemies may go to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
We are aware that preemies may not go to the NICU.
We are aware that not all car seats can handle a preemie.
We are aware that not all preemies can handle a car seat.
We are aware of doctors, specialists, nurses, beeping machines, silent machines, lines, tubes, and tracking.
We are aware that growth can be measured in fractions of grams (and we celebrate each one)
We are aware that being born premature can cause long term challenges.
We are aware that being born premature doesn’t always cause long term challenges.
We are aware that anyone can have a preemie.
We are aware that preemies fight for their life, often before they are even born.
We are aware of the feeling of helplessness.
We are aware of the fierce pride.
We are aware that milestones may be delayed or nonexistent.
We are aware that we can measure inch-stones!
We are aware of germs, viruses, and ALL the hand sanitizer and soap.
We are aware that life doesn’t always go the way we think it will, and that is ok.
We are aware. And we are proud of our little fighters.
