When Tiffany Brosius was 26 weeks pregnant, her feet began to swell.
But the 37-year-old Atlanta mother says she didnt think too much about it.
After all, swelling in pregnancy is common.
She was admitted to the hospital, treated and monitored closely.
That was a scary week, but nothing compared to what was to come.
It is also a logistical and emotional challenge that stretches parents well past their limits.
And that is where you come in.
Here are some specific ways you’re free to help a NICU family manage this difficult time.
Help with logistics
Be a point person.
Creating an online shopping list of the familys staples that they (or someone else) can reorder easily.
Having a small compact mirror enables a parent and baby to see each other and connect.
Chapstick/hand lotion.There is a lot of hand-washing that goes on in the NICU.
An insulated refillable water bottleto keep parents (especially pumping or breastfeeding moms) hydrated.
When another NICU mom gave Brosius a shirt that made pumping easier, it was a game-changer.
Its important to find and treasure moments of joy, Kelley says.
Ear plugsto block out the noises of the NICU.
Protein-packed snack foodsto have on hand.
Kelley says parents are so busy that they frequently forget to eat.
), and their childs particular condition.
For some families, a large donation gathering effort such as a GoFundMe page might make the most sense.
Ask the family what kind of support they need and then offer to help organize it.
Other ways to offer financial support:
Give grocery, gas or ride-share gift cards.
Pitch in with friends to pay for a house cleaning service.
Its very lonely when you are pumping, and you dont have a baby.
And dont forget about the dads.
Kelley reminds folks: Reach out to dads.
Keep the support coming after they get home, too.
Kelleys visitors had to be healthy and up to date on all vaccinations.
