18/09/2024
In honor of NICU Awareness Month and in memory of my precious daughter, Mia Elizabeth, who passed away after 37 unforgettable days, I am launching a fundraiser to support NICU babies and their families. Mia Elizabeth was born seven weeks early, weighing just 3 lbs 13 oz, and spent 21 days in the NICU primarily to grow and develop. While her stay was challenging, it was also filled with moments of profound care and hope.
The NICU experience is a rollercoaster of emotions. One of the hardest parts for me was leaving Mia to go home and get prepared for her all while knowing that the nurses, who became like family to us, were taking excellent care of her. The constant beeping of machines, the sight of wires attached to my tiny baby, and the uncomfortable chairs that became my makeshift bed were daily reminders of the gravity of the situation. Seeing other families leave with their babies was bittersweet—a joyful milestone for them, but a reminder of the journey I still had yet ahead.
Yet, amidst the challenges, there were bright moments. The NICU staff, whom I affectionately called Mia’s “Aunties,” became a second family. They helped create midnight photo shoots, capturing Mia’s tiny milestones and giving me memories to treasure. Watching Mia grow stronger each day, reaching the point where she was almost ready to come home, filled my heart with hope. I cherished every story I read to her and every moment we shared in that quiet space, surrounded by machines but filled with love.
To honor Mia’s memory and support other families going through the NICU experience, I’m collecting donations of baby blankets, hats, books, and clothing (preemie, newborn, and 0-3 months). These simple items can offer comfort and warmth to the babies and parents enduring this challenging time. Please note that knitted or homemade items cannot be accepted, and all donations must be in good or new condition.
I will be collecting donations until September 29th when I’ll be delivering them to the St. Catharines Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where Mia spent much of her time. If you’re interested in donating, I can arrange pick-ups or meet you at Conestoga Mall, Cambridge, or Fairview on September 21st, 22nd, 28th, or 29th at times I’ll announce soon below.
Here’s how you can help:
-Donate new baby blankets, soft hats, and preemie/newborn clothing** (sizes: preemie, newborn, 0-3 months) to provide comfort to NICU babies.
-Donate baby books to help parents bond with their babies, even when they’re separated by machines and incubators.
-You can also make a monetary donation which I will use to purchase essential items for the NICU families and babies-pm me for email.
Every donation, no matter how small, makes a difference. These items represent more than physical comfort—they bring hope, love, and a reminder that there is a community of support surrounding these families during their hardest times.
During this NICU Awareness Month, I invite you to join me in honoring Mia’s memory by offering warmth and care to the babies and families who need it most. Your kindness means more than words can express.
Thank you for your love and support.
