November is World Prematurity Awarness Month. March of Dimes just released their 2018 report card. Moms, Dads, and babies face higher risks than ever before. The preterm birth rate in the United States has worsened for a third year, rising to 9.93 percent in 2017. Premature birth and its complications are the largest contributors to infant death in this country and globally.

My son, Jayce fits the majority of babies that are born prematurely. 70% of premature babies are born between weeks 34 and 36. The lower half of babies born too early are deemed what are known as "micro-preemies". These babies only make up 6% of premature births; being born before 28 weeks.

In the NICU you start being immersed in a whole new world of lingo and social norms. Meeting other parents at the handwashing sink, sharing pumping rooms, hearing of destats, apgar scores, light therapy, GI Tubes...

You watch the joy of parents being told their baby is ready to go from NICU to PICU (or step down care), only to see the parents in the NICU again next week. "She went backwards, her lung collapsed, she started losing weight again... there was no warning."

You don't have a set leave date. All you are told is hopefully by their due date. You don't have a stable ANYTHING in NICU.

People come and go, NICU floor cleared for parents saying their goodbyes. Doctors switch shifts, nurses go home... you stay listening to the.

Beep

Beep

Beep

That you will hear even after you leave... maybe for years to come.

Post Partum Depression, Post Partum Anxiety, Post Partum Post Traumatic Stress.

You'll be told by (non-understanding) family members and friends so much.

"You're being dramatic."

"It's not that bad."

"Could have been worse."

You are allowed to hurt. You are allowed to feel pain. You are allowed to wish things happened differently. You are allowed to cry, scream, and breakdown. You are allowed to hold your baby tight... thankful they are still here with you when you watched so many leave.

You are allowed to reach out for help.

1 in 10 babies are born too soon.

This is not a secluded issue.

You are not alone.

You are strong.