From one NICU mom to another: I see you, I believe in you

Donor Mom Brittany shares her story

When I gave birth to my third baby, Zack, I thought I knew what to expect. But nothing went according to plan

Shortly after delivery, Zack was rushed to the NICU, where he stayed for nearly two months. It was the most traumatizing, gut-wrenching period of my life.

Pumping breast milk for Zack’s tube feeds became one of the few ways I felt I could connect with him. When I could barely care for myself, the routine of pumping gave me structure, and producing nourishing milk for him motivated me to prioritize my own health. I eventually developed an oversupply of milk, and the NICU staff encouraged me to donate.

As I sat pumping beside Zack’s incubator for hours each day, I felt elated by the idea of helping other fragile NICU babies and their families. It truly has been one of the most healing aspects of this journey.

After two long months, Zack was finally discharged with his NG tube feeds. Diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder that makes feeding incredibly challenging, he amazed us all by transitioning to drinking pumped breast milk from a specialized bottle nipple by three months old—a milestone that allowed us to discontinue his NG tube several months earlier than expected.

We were never able to directly breastfeed, but bottle feeding is his incredible accomplishment against all odds. This journey taught me that fed is best, no matter the method.

Now, every time I pump and donate, I think of the sweet NICU babies who might be nourished by my milk. From one NICU mom to another: I see you, I believe in you. May your journey be as smooth as possible, and may your little one’s tummy be filled with love.

Thank-you Brittany for sharing your story.

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