An Open Letter to NICU Moms on Mother's Day

To the warrior mamas whose hearts live in the NICU —

This Mother’s Day, we see you.

We see the strength it takes to sit beside an isolette instead of a nursery rocker. We see the bravery in your voice as you ask the hard questions, advocate fiercely, and whisper love through tubes and wires. We see the unfaltering love in your eyes when you press your hand gently against the isolette wall, willing your baby to feel every ounce of your presence.

This journey, so very different from what you imagined, has shaped you into something extraordinary. You’ve become fluent in medical terminology you never planned to learn. You’ve measured time in grams gained and milestones met. You’ve held hope in one hand and fear in the other and still found a way to rise every day with courage.

You are not just a mother. You are their mother.

The perfect mother.

You’ve proven, time and again, that love is not measured by how many days you spend at home together, but by how many moments you show up when it’s hardest. You are the voice that comforts, the presence that steadies, and the heart that never gives up.

And to your sweet baby, whether you're cradling them in your arms today, watching them grow strong at home, or holding them forever in your heart, your love for them is unwavering. No matter the path your story has taken, you’ve whispered to them with every beat of your heart:

“You are the perfect child for me, and I am the perfect mother for you.”

Because even in the hardest moments, your love speaks louder than fear. And that truth will echo in your bond forever.

Happy Mother’s Day, NICU Mom.

You are incredible. You are not alone. And you are deeply, deeply loved.

With all our hearts,
Project NICU