Meet Marissa, mom to 2.5 year old, Kennedy.

1. Tell us about your pregnancy and birth plan.

During, my pregnancy I received high quality prenatal care from a experienced Certified Nurse-Midwife (CNM). We desired to have a home birth with the support a great team.

2. Tell us about your birthing experience. 

When Kennedy was born, she had aspired meconium and suffered from severe condition meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). She received immediate medical care from first responders, went to the hospital and spent some time in the NICU. She then was transferred to an out of state Children’s Hospital NICCU (Critical Care) Unit. It is important to note that her care team in the NICCU believes that MAS likely would have happened regardless of her birth place. 

3. How long was your baby in the NICU ?

For 27 days. I became a mama in crisis and two things were most important to me: to be informed of Kennedy’s care and to continue to pump breast milk. I could not have done it without the hard work and support of my husband, Corey, and our family and friends.

4. What would be your best advice to future parents who would have to go through a NICU experience?

I hope that fellow mamas having to experience trauma during labor, delivery and postpartum are empowered to trust their instincts, to know it is their right to be informed about their baby’s care and to be part of the care plan.

5. How is everyone doing today?

Kennedy is thriving. She is a curious toddler and she is the best part of our lives. I enjoy watching her learn new things everyday and how much joy she brings me and my husband.