A Preemie Teaches Me...

Published

Specializes in Neonatal Intensive Care.

Some of life's greatest lessons are learned from the littlest ones:

Lying under radiant heat, hooked to machines, wires, and tubes; fine thin hair covers your small vulnerable body. You struggle for each breath you take. I look at you and marvel at your strength. Strength not measured by physical power but by the power to persevere and overcome daily adversities. You teach me to never take a single breath for granted.

preemiegirl-300x200.jpg

You toil and try, struggle and strive and finally triumph over every single milestone we set for you. The NICU expectations are high, and you continue to amaze me. You are constantly working, extremely patient and tolerate to everything we set before you. You teach me that nothing is impossible.

As you work so hard to digest your food, gain even an ounce, and hold your temperature all on your own- I see the determination in your eyes and your endurance is inspiring. You teach me that hard work pays off and to never give up on a goal. You inspire me to be and do better.

As you cuddle with your mother, snuggled deep upon her chest, I see her smile and I see you peacefully enjoying her warmth and the sound of her heart beating. You teach me to appreciate the simple free things in life as they are worth more than anything money could ever buy.

The definition of brave cannot be more defined than by you. You have taught me appreciation, acceptance, understanding, compassion, patience and hope. You have taught me much more than I could have ever taught you and for that I am grateful.

Those who pause in their world long enough to get to know yours, will know what it's like to meet a true living miracle and I am thankful I was chosen to be part of it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in being a Credible Source.

Seeing the baby, not the environment... (she was actually vented, etc.)

Preemie Painting.bmp

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in NICU, Infection Control.

Nice!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

What a wonderful post, thank you.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I certainly agree! My little preemie has taught me more in the last 6 years then first 25!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in LTC and School Health.

Thanks for sharing. Very nice and heartwarming.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Acute Care, CM, School Nursing.

My little guy was born at 29 weeks: One pound, 13 ounces and 13 inches long. I have never met such a tough little cookie... :) He is almost 9 years old and is such an amazing human being.

:)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Beautifully written. Thank you. Such a wonderful reminder!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ED. ICU, PICU, infection prevention, aeromedical e.

Thanks for sharing. I'm not NICU, but this is just beautiful!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ER, Public Health, Community, PMHNP.

Your post brought tears to my eyes, my son is a 25 weeker who is now 28 months actual. He has taught me everything the post mentioned. I am thinking about applying to NICU when i resume working as an RN. HAPPY PREMATURITY DAY TODAY it;s Nov. 17. To all the little fighter in NICU worldwide may you continue to grow from strength to strength daily.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in PICU/NICU.

I love this! I am going to share with my unit. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Exactly why I love NICU'

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion