What can i do?

When Emery was born premature i had many people who didnt know how to act around us, or what to say to us.... Well i have compiled some ideas of things you can do to help or say to a family that has recently had a preemie..

- Say Congrats, it may seem quite simple but many people forget, Remember although are baby was born smaller and most likely not so healthy, this is still an amazing moment for us and we are Happy!

- If they have other kids, ask if you can take them out for the day so mom and dad can relax a bit and also most young children cant come into the NICU, so finding time to go to the Nicu with other children can be tough.

- Make some dinners for them, casseroles are awesome. Something they can reheat and not have to worry about remember anything is better then hospital food!!!

- Ask if you can help them with laundry, When Emery was in the hospital we were only home to sleep and eat(on occasion) so the chores piled up, we had to catch up on 6 weeks worth of laundry!! Even doing one load for them can be such a blessing.

- Do not get mad if they do not return your phonecalls or emails, this time is very difficult it is filled with so many emotions, and it is hard to get back to all the people who are wondering how everything is.

- Or volunteer to send out a mass email or text for them with some details.. "Hi this is so and so paula and j would like you to know that Emery is doing well , they have increased her feeds and she has even gained a few ounces, please keep baby Emery in your prayers!" something like that!

- Put together a NICU gift basket.. include some things like lotion(frequent handwashing for weeks on end ugh), A comfy pillow (those hospital chairs get stiff), Nursing pads for mama, some soft blankets for baby... there are so many things you can add and you can get many of these things from the dollar store! It doesnt have to be expensive or big just shows that you care!

- Remember that Dad is just as effected by this as mom is, i think many people forgot this with my husband..

- Most of all just be there to lend a helping hand, a few kind words.. and a Prayer.

Preemie mommies feel free to add more in the comments!