A few simple words

It is amazing how a few simple words from a stranger can change your entire day. 

Yesterday I received a message from my health insurance company that was extremely vague. Thley identified themselves as being from the insurance company and informed me they needed to speak to me about my daughter.  Because of my daughter's stay in the NICU, this had me concerned.  I thought everything was processed - were they suddenly going to tell me it was all rejected? How would I cover all of this? I was panicked.

After hours of frustration at work and several phone calls, I finally connected with the person who left the message. They were calling as part of their preventative care program and wanted to let me know about services available to help Amelia. Whew!  That is a relief.  I was connected with a nurse who began asking a series of questions about Amelia's condition and care.  I told her our story and about the obstacles we had overcome.  After I finished, she gave me one of the best compliments I have received to date - "It sounds like she is doing really well and you are doing everything right.  She is lucky to have such caring and focused parents."

This may seem extremely simple but as a new mother it is golden. I think it is every parent's fear that they will not be a good parent or that they are going to somehow cause their child harm.  With a preemie, this fear is increased exponentially.  Telling our story brings back a flood of memories of how small she was and how strong we all were. Taking her out into public is an adventure because everyone seems to have an opinion and they are usually quick to point out what you could be doing better.  It is enough to make a new parent mad.  At least for one night though, I can rest easier knowing that I have succeeded at the most important thing I will do in my lifetime - motherhood.