Throughout NICU Awareness Month, we are honored to share stories that highlight the NICU journey. This month, we’re highlighting a local family whose baby boy spent his first days in the BSA Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Their story reflects the challenges parents face, the support they receive and the joy that follows.
An Unexpected Start
What began as a typical Saturday quickly became life changing. At just 33 weeks and 3 days pregnant, Gladys Clift knew something wasn’t right. After calling her OB-GYN’s office, she went straight to the hospital. Doctors admitted her, placed her on a magnesium drip and set a goal to keep her pregnancy going until 34 weeks.
During her stay, she met the BSA NICU team for the first time.
“Dr. Kathy came to inform me that my baby was going to be staying in the NICU for some time after the delivery. At the time, I did not know what to expect or had prepared myself to ask any questions. She was wonderful at explaining everything and gave me her contact information if and when I had questions before I gave birth.”
When she reached 34 weeks and 2 days, Gladys delivered her son via C-section. The NICU team stood ready. Her husband accompanied their baby boy to the NICU, and their family’s journey began.
A Mix of Emotions
Hearing that her baby needed NICU care brought waves of emotions.
“I felt helpless and guilt at first. Although I knew it was not my fault, I still felt like I could have prevented my preterm labor some way or another. I blamed myself and my body for not being able to provide a safe place for my baby. But at the same time, I knew I had to be strong for my baby, our family, and myself.”
The Care Team that Became Family
The BSA NICU team not only provided expert medical care but also offered consistent reassurance.
“They made communicating easy and were reassuring when we felt defeated. They made our journey easy despite the setbacks.”
From daily updates and involving the parents in hands-on care like feedings and diaper changes, to inviting them to ask questions during rounds, the team made sure this family never felt left out.
One moment that stood out most: a nurse’s thoughtful drawing of a dinosaur with their son’s birth information.
“Each baby had one, each different. We appreciate the time she took to make something personalized for us. It really did brighten our day.”
Comfort and Support
Beyond medical care, the family found comfort in the resources and support systems available in the NICU. They received lactation support, a breast pump in their room, counseling services, and even physical therapy for their baby.
“We could not thank the NICU staff enough. They not only cared for our baby but our family as well. They were so patient with explaining, guiding us, and listening to our needs.”
Thriving Beyond the NICU
The early days at home felt overwhelming, filled with relief but also worry. Yet three years later, their son is thriving.
“Three years out of the NICU and our baby boy is meeting all his milestones. He has taught me to slow down in life and to celebrate each milestone no matter the size.”
Advice for Other Parents
For families just starting their NICU journey, Gladys offers heartfelt encouragement:
“It’s okay to feel scared, angry, and sad. Just remember your baby is getting the support they need at the moment and you did not fail them. The NICU journey can feel like a rollercoaster, but every small win counts. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, speak up, and focus on your baby’s needs today.”
Why BSA’s NICU?
“I would highly recommend BSA’s NICU because they not only have exceptional care for our babies, but they make us feel like we are all family. They are compassionate, supportive, and reassuring. We never felt like a burden. They always welcomed us with open arms and made us feel like we were all on the same page of doing everything possible to get our baby home when it was time.”
Click here to learn more about our Level III Neonatal ICU.