My son G was born 8 weeks early. Our NICU journey had been intense and hard at levels we never imagined. We had had quite a few nurses up until Juanita joined us around week 4 of this journey. Before Juanita, we had different nurses almost daily. It was hard to keep track of their names and also to maintain a relationship of understanding and style before Juanita. After our 3rd room relocation, we got blessed with the absolute best nurse.
Juanita took care of G in a way only a mother could or understand. She included me in every piece of information taking time to ensure I understood, allowed me to be a mother as much as I could with my son incubated and fed through a tube. She helped me bond with my son even as the days and weeks flew by without an end in sight. In times of desperation and uncertainty when I would try to hide my tears, she gave me space to feel but also ensured me that all of this is temporary and that he'd be home with us soon enough.
Juanita was so amazing with our son when we couldn't be there. It is unimaginable not being able to take your child home with you and incomprehensible to leave your baby in the care of strangers, but it never felt that way with Juanita. I felt so confident that not only was G being taken care of but in the best way he was loved. He was cuddled and nurtured and was always treated with such great care.
When we finally were given the discharge "ok", there was so much happiness. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness however that we wouldn't see Juanita every day. She became a part of my family. She developed a sweet bond with my son that to this day I can't explain. It was hard to say goodbye to our favorite nurse and I think she felt the same for us.
In all of my experiences in the NICU with all 3 of my sons, I never felt this bond or connection with a nurse. I never would wish this experience on anyone but if parents have to endure the NICU, I pray that they are blessed with Juanita or someone exactly like her.