S2E16 | Preparing for Neonatal Care: Lizzie's NICU Story

This week, we're bringing you a special episode that sheds light on an important perspective. Join us as we speak with Lizzie, a mum-to-be who is about to start her NICU journey. At the time of recording, Lizzie was currently pregnant and knows that she is going to be spending some time in neonatal care with her baby. LIzzie reached out to me and asked if it would be helpful to share her story, her experiences and feelings. We are going to hopefully also do another episode with her once she has had her baby, to talk about how the experience was for her. 

Lizzie's story is a testament to the varied paths to motherhood. As a solo mum who utilised a sperm donor, she underwent three rounds of IVF. Her journey included not just one, but two surgeries and the heart-wrenching experience of a miscarriage. 

At the 10-week scan, Lizzie's reality took a new shape. She's a midwife herself, and her knowledge added depth to her experiences. Her baby was diagnosed with an abdominal wall defect known as exomphalos, creating a huge uncertainty for the rest of her pregnancy. Lizzie discusses how she has coped with the uncertainty, the anxiety, the grief and how she is preparing to start her journey as a NICU parent. 

We explore topics such as: 

• Single Motherhood 

• IVF and Sperm donation

• Being a “geriatric” Mother

• Coping with a medical diagnosis 

• The importance of community 

• How to prepare for NICU 

• Bonding with your baby, in the womb and in NICU 

• Navigating the unknown 

Lizzie's journey is just beginning, and she's preparing to step into the world of NICU. Her story is one of hope, uncertainty, strength, and community. As we conclude this episode, we invite you to join us in sending positive thoughts Lizzie's way as she embarks on this journey. We are hoping to catch up with Lizzie again in the future when she is home.

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Music: Moments by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com