By Emily Rivas
Updated Mar 30, 2017Photo: Miracle Mumma
Parents of preemies can go through a pretty isolating time at the NICU, a place where the future can seem uncertain. But one Australian mom is on a mission to bring preemie parents a little hope during this difficult time.
Amy Purling, the owner of a blog and online store called Miracle Mumma, has created a series of milestone cards to track a preemie’s journey in the NICU and make scary times seem a little brighter. The cards feature milestones most other parents wouldn't deem as significant, but are huge for preemie parents, such as first snuggles, first weight gain and first day without wires.
Straight from this boy's Mum - "I never wanted to use this card but unfortunately he needed the surgery for his PDA and I'm so glad we had it to celebrate his battle " I can only hope this photo puts things into perspective and raises awareness of what these brave soldiers go through before they're even meant to be born A post shared by Miracle Mumma (@miraclemumma) on
The cards were inspired by Purling's son, James, who was born 30 weeks into her pregnancy and spent his first five weeks in the NICU. Purling would note every little step of James' progress—it was her way of coping with everything. That's when she realized that standard baby milestone cards don't quite capture preemie moments. She figured other preemie parents would appreciate having preemie-specific milestone cards, too.
Just beautiful Popular little Ziggy has a full warm tummy and looks extremely comfy. Nice job Mumma, you've done good! (@jessieraeholland, your smile melts my heart!!) Premature Baby Milestone Cards make the perfect gift for a premmie Mum. Available online www.miraclemumma.com.au A post shared by Miracle Mumma (@miraclemumma) on
Now, Miracle Mumma sells packs of milestone cards for boys, girls and twins, and there's also a gender-neutral option. Parents of preemies are finding hope in these cards and have even made the Miracle Mumma Facebook page a forum of sorts.
We love that these cards are giving even the tiniest of humans an opportunity to celebrate their small victories.
You can find these adorable cards on Purling's site and at preemiestore.com.