This conversation highlights the experiences of NICU parents, focusing on the emotional and practical challenges they face. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support, personal stories, and the initiatives taken by organizations like My Kota Bear to assist families with premature babies. The speakers share their journeys, the resources available, and offer words of encouragement to those navigating similar paths.

Websites mentioned in podcast:

GLO Preemies

www.GLOPreemies.Org

My Kota Bear

mykotabear/home

Free2Read Services

Email: free2readservices@gmail.com

Once Upon A Preemie

https://www.onceuponapreemie.org/

Follow me on IG at @GLOPreemiesFounder and on TikTok at @Empowered_Mother

Takeaways:

• NICU parents often feel isolated and need support.

• Community initiatives can significantly help NICU families.

• Personal stories can inspire and provide hope to others.

• It's important to advocate for your child's needs in the NICU.

• Mental health support is crucial for NICU parents.

• Celebrating milestones, like baby showers, can uplift families.

• Organizations like My Kota Bear provide essential resources.

• Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

• Parents should know they are not alone in their struggles.

• Hope and resilience are key themes in NICU journeys.

Welcome to the very first episode of Invisible: The Glue That Holds Mothers Together. In this premiere, host Ashley Randolph, founder of GLO Preemies and also for the Alliance for Black NICU Families. She is a leading advocate for Black maternal health, sets the stage for why this podcast is so necessary right now.

Ashley shares her journey as the first Black parent chair for the NICU subcommittee at CPQCC (20212023) and her ongoing work in neonatal health there since 2017. She also discusses her role as being the first representative as a Black parent and representing a minority organization on the Community Engagement Advisory Board at the Neonatal Research Network under NICHD.

This episode dives into the critical issues of racial and health equity at a time when civil rights and DEI efforts are being dismantled across the country. Through candid conversations and inspiring stories, Ashley creates a space for healing, action, and hope.

Segments in this episode include:

A Moment with Ashley Why this podcast matters and how we move forward in a time of injustice.

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered Answering a listeners question: How do you stay hopeful when progress feels slow?

Getting Unstuck A powerful interview with Dr. Temi, a leading expert in health equity.
Bonded by Brilliance Honoring Emerald Garner, daughter of Eric Garner and her organization We Can't Breathe Inc.

A Prayer for the Country Featuring Emma Williams, the first Black woman chaplain for the state of California, as she shares her journey and offers a closing prayer for unity and justice.

This is just the beginning. You are invisible no more.

Participate in segments by visiting invisiblewithAshley.com