Da'Kari was born at 28 weeks due to complications with my cerclage. It was an emergency C-section because his heart rate was rapidly dropping. Being in the NICU was a journey—one I didn’t know what to expect. On his first day in the NICU, he was placed on oxygen and feeding tubes. I was told he had some heart complications along with a brain bleed. Within 48 hours, he graduated from oxygen and no longer needed breathing support.
He was one of the first babies to transition from the old Women’s Hospital to the new Women’s and Children’s Center. He had a setback where he was brought back to life, which in turn placed him back on a feeding tube. My little man was more than resilient. Within a week, he was back to feeding from a bottle and was able to come home after 49 long days.
His staff was amazing—from the support of the NICU nurses to the support from the Family Network, I was truly grateful to experience this journey. I would do it all over again!
From a NICU mom, I would encourage families to utilize the supports available, create bonds with the teams, including nurses, leadership, and the Family Network. Give your baby time and grace. It’s a roller coaster—some days are better than others. Take it one day at a time. The journey is well worth it! Be your baby’s advocate. Speak up and ask questions.
Love,
To'Quisha Fuller