Love, Kelbi

“Dear NICU Mama,
This season and always, I hope you give yourself permission to celebrate your wins.

Entering a space of uncertainty can make it hard to know what success looks like, but I want you to know that every step forward is progress worth celebrating.

From complications and diagnosis, to delivery and beyond, each day can feel like a mountain. Sweet mama, I hope you know that every mountain you climb is a victory worth celebrating.

With every blood pressure reading, when tracking milestones, and learning to navigate your mental health postpartum, you might feel shame or grief for your story – but I want to remind you that your unique journey is one of love, resilience, and strength. You are the best mama for your child. You are worth celebrating.

Love,
Kelbi

More of Kelbi + Theo’s NICU Journey:
I was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia and IUGR during week 31 of pregnancy. After 3 weeks of blood pressure meds, tests and hospital stays, we ultimately delivered by c-section at 34 weeks. Theo weighed 3lbs 10oz and spent 2 weeks in NICU. I exclusively pumped and we fortified milk for 11 months. At 19 months postpartum, I was diagnosed with PTSD. After receiving treatment through EMDR, I’m grateful to have found relief. I want to give hope to new NICU moms. Last fall, I shut down and felt sick. This year, I’m proud to write this letter as we approach my son’s second birthday on 10/14.