My baby boy has been in the NICU almost 3 months. I seriously feel like part of the hospital at this point. I've talked concerned mother's through tough times and similar medical issues that our babies have through. I talk and listen to personal issues and share stories with them and the nurses. I sit and hold my son or feed him and have conversations like I work there or we're friends. Most nurses recognize me and are friendly even if he's not in their pod or their 'assignment'. They will stop and see how big he's gotten, or ask me how well he's doing if they haven't seen him in awhile. It makes me feel so good knowing they care about him and are friendly enough to make a long stay mother feel welcome and not so alone.. :)