In this week's episode, Ashley and Aisha sit down with NICU mama Kelsey to hear the story of her son, Rory, who arrived unexpectedly at 35 weeks and spent seven days in the NICU.
Kelsey vulnerably shares the loneliness of being separated from her baby after birth, waiting 72 hours to hold him, navigating the unexpected challenges of bonding, and the survival mode that followed her long after they came home. Together, the mamas talk about the grief of not getting to mother the way you imagined, postpartum anxiety and anger, and why the length of a NICU stay never determines the significance of a family’s experience.
Whether your NICU journey lasted one day or many months, this conversation is a gentle reminder that your story is worthy, your experience is valid, and you are the mom your baby needs.
It’s also Walking Letter of Hope Day week! Here’s how to walk with us:
Whether you’re gathering with us in Fargo or walking wherever you are, we invite you to walk alongside NICU families and celebrate this incredible community.
• Walk where you are: Gather your family, friends, or loved ones and walk with us on September 20th.
• Walk with us in Fargo: Join our local community gathering at Trollwood Park from 4:00–6:00 PM.
• Support the mission: Create a fundraising team or make a gift to help Dear NICU Mama continue providing connection, resources, and hope to NICU mothers and families.
Create your team and give at dearnicumama.com/give.
However you join us, take a photo, tag @dearnicumama, and use #WalkingLetterOfHopeDay so we can celebrate with you. Wherever you are, we walk with you!
To get connected with DNM:
Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram
Support the show
