Trauma Mamas
Trauma Mamas is a podcast dedicated to the incredible families who navigate the ICU and raise children with medical complexities. These parents have faced the unimaginable—from premature births and life-saving surgeries to chronic illnesses, long ICU stays, and child loss. Each episode shares their stories of unwavering love and tireless advocacy, even when all hope seems lost. These powerful, inspiring stories deserve to be heard and celebrated. Trauma Mamas also provides resources, hope, and a sense of community for those who need it most. Through shared experiences and meaningful conversations, we aim to support parents who are fighting for their children’s health and well-being.
Trauma Mamas
#5: You Weren't Expecting to Have a Micropreemie in the NICU: with Tori
Episode Title: You Weren’t Expecting to Have a Micropreemie in the NICU
In this episode, Tori and I share our personal stories of navigating the NICU with a micropreemie—complete with some comedic relief! We talk about how to face the NICU with grace (even though we didn’t always get it right 😆), common preemie complications like ROP, NEC, and brain bleeds, and the emotional rollercoaster of intubation and reintubation.
Tori shares what those early days were like and gives advice on coping, taking breaks, and the power of journaling. We also discuss how we showed up for our babies every day, even when it felt impossible.
This episode is for anyone who needs understanding and encouragement through the toughest moments of parenthood. We aren’t trying to scare you—just sharing the realities of having a preemie in the NICU. We all wish we had been better prepared, and that’s our goal with this episode. But you and your baby are stronger than you know—never lose hope.