NICU Poem
February 5, 2021
I have spent a lot of time reflecting on when my daughter was in the NICU. 9 long weeks of her being in the hospital, away from her family, and the extreme precautions with COVID. One of the most traumatic experiences for myself. Today I will have a training with my ELA department, and a part of it was to come prepared with some of our writing… That is when I came across this poem I wrote during her time in the hospital. Even with her being a little over 5 months old, going back and reading this was enough to bring me to tears. For anyone experiencing hardship, or having their child in the NICU. Know, it is temporary, be strong even though it is the hardest damn thing you will do. Cry when you get home when you need to, and know, when that baby comes home, it will all be worth it.
NICU Poem by Alainee Simonson
Blinking lights, strange sounds
Nurses all around
This isn’t the hello I imagined for when I got to meet you
Seeing you covered in wires, and essentially living in a box
Splitting my time between our home and these four walls
There have been so many tears
But my sweet girl don’t let them fool you
Mommy has been scared, but I know you’re a warrior
Not only have there been tears, but also moments filled with joy
Like the moment I held you for the very first time
For now this is hard, and is where you spend most of your time
But one day you’ll be home and spending all your time in these arms of mine
Your brother and sister ask about you everyday
And your daddy adores you and the cute faces you make
I’m thankful the nurses take such great care of you
They have become second family up in the NICU
So for now my dear, I will go home without you
But it won’t be for long
But you’ll be strong enough soon, and then mommy will always be beside you