Tag Archives: nicugrads

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Year 15. Gio and Isa’s Miracles

And just like that, another year has passed honoring our miracles, Giovanni and Isannah, as we walked in the March for Babies.

The walk was last Sunday, and although we knew rain was on the way, the heart and dedication of this team never wavered. No one let the weather stop them. Instead, we showed up together, proudly wearing our new team shirts celebrating Gio and Isa’s Miracles.

These shirts felt especially meaningful this year, as they were made with love by my dear friend Caroline at Her Way To Slay. Her kindness and support were with us every step of the way as we walked with pride. 

We arrived later than usual and were immediately met with volunteers taking down signs. For a moment, I worried we’d missed it, that the walk had already ended. It’s normally so full of faces and clusters of people, the kind of crowd you have to weave your way through, but we didn’t let that stop us.

The wind pushed hard against us as the rain came in fits, sharp and spitting. At times, my hair whipped across my face so fiercely I could barely see the people just ahead. Still, we kept moving, carried forward by shared jokes, loud laughter, and something deeper that kept us going.

And then I looked around at the familiar faces. The people who have walked beside us for 15 years and I knew, without question, that everything was going to be okay.

I’m humbled by your kindness, generosity, and support. 

Gio and Isa’s Miracles is still active. It’s not too late to donate.

https://www.marchforbabies.org/caramia626

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Karters NICU Graduation

There are many good days in the NICU, but yesterday was the absolute best and I was blessed to be a part of every moment.

Karter came into the NICU as a tiny little peanut, fighting bravely through so many challenges. Each day he grew bigger and stronger. While there are always setbacks, new decisions, and fresh beginnings in this journey, he never wavered. He showed us all that he was ready to make his way in this unsteady world.

Yesterday, Karter became a NICU graduate, a big, beautiful, healthy 22 week old boy.

I was blessed to cuddle him throughout his time at NYPBM whenever I was on shift, including his graduation day. I was able to steal one last beautiful cuddle, holding him until he fell asleep comfortably in my arms, saving all his energy for his big celebration.

There were interviews, speeches, and nurses and staff stopping by to share in the excitement. We even had Santa spreading good cheer and well wishes.

Everyone was unbelievably happy and just a little sad, as Karter has been part of our NICU family for six months. He is loved by so many and he has become a permanent resident in my heart.

Then it was time for the big moment, Karter wore his graduation cap and made his way out the NICU doors. We rolled out the red carpet, lined up on each side with pom-poms in hand and golden crowns on our heads. “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang played as we cheered his name and danced alongside mom and Karter on their walk out of the NICU. His doctors were moved to tears, and I had to turn away more than once to catch my own. When Karter’s mom began to speak, there wasn’t a dry eye. She is an amazing, kind, and truly beautiful mother, and Karter is blessed in every way.

As the cheers slowly faded, hugs were shared. J, M, and I helped mom gather six months’ worth of NICU belongings and said our “see you later” instead of goodbye. The three of us walked upstairs, chatting about the day and the memories we’ll carry with us forever.

This was a day I truly needed, and I am so grateful to have been part of this journey.