In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, host AshleyO’Neil speaks with Latoya Blueford who shares her profound NICU journey with her daughter Skylar, who was born prematurely and faced numerous medicalchallenges. The discussion delves into the emotional rollercoaster of NICU life, the transition to home, and the heartbreaking experience of losing Skylar. LaToya reflects on her grief, the creation of The Skylar Project to support other NICU families, and the ongoing journey of healing. Thisconversation emphasizes the importance of community, support, and honoring the memory of lost loved ones. You do not want to miss this episode.

Website: theskylarproject.org

Instagram: the_skylarproject

In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, host Ashley O’Neil speaks with Kristal Gaddes who opens up about her powerful journey through the NICU as a preemie mom. Together, we dive into the emotional and practical challenges parents face in the NICU, from navigating medical complexities and juggling family responsibilities, to theimportance of support systems and community. Kristal spends time reflecting on how her faith shaped her NICUexperience. We also compared the striking differences in maternity leave between the UK where Kristal lives andthe U.S. This is a conversation about resilience, love, and the strength of NICU families everywhere. You do not want to miss this episode.

Welcome to season 3! In this episode of the Ask a NICU MamaPodcast, host Ashley O’Neil speaks to Misti Staley, founder of the Freeman Foundation and the creator of the FreeArm. In this heartfelt conversation, Misti shares her journey as a mother to her son Freeman, who faced numerous medical challenges from birth. The discussion delves into the emotional and practical aspects of navigating the NICU and PICU, the profound grief of losing a child, and the ways Misti has turned her pain into purpose through advocacy and innovation. She reflects on the importance of family-centered care, the creation of a playground in Freeman's memory, and the development of a feeding device called the FreeArm. The conversation also touches on the ongoing nature of grief and the support systems that can help families cope with loss. You do not want to miss this episode!

Website: freearmcare.com

Instagram: freearm.tube.feeding.assistant