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Athena’s Story
A Journey of Empowerment and Hope
The journey to protect my daughter started while I was still carrying her. At 40, pregnancy posed many obstacles, not least of which was the fact that medical professionals classified me as being “advanced maternal age.” Every time I went to the high-risk doctor for an ultrasound, I felt a knot in my stomach, worrying about potential health problems. Although I had intended to have a c-section due to her health concerns, as the saying goes, you can make plans but you can’t plan for the outcome.
Inspired by My Daughter’s Fight for Life in the NICU
Athena’s Warriors is Born
My heart aches as I recall my daughter’s four- month journey in the NICU. The emotional and financial strain of commuting 45 minutes each way, five days a week, was unbearable, especially as I was unable to work full-time and provide the necessary care for my 5-year-old at home. The distance between us felt like a constant weight on my shoulders. I knew the loneliness I felt I could not let any other parent or caregiver go through it alone. At that moment Athena’s warriors was born.
Questions & Answers
Q&A
What Is It?
Athena Warriors is NICU Parent Peer Services for parents with babies in the NICU, providing guidance and support to navigate the NICU experience and promote positive outcomes for both parents and babies.
Who Is It For?
Parents or Caregivers that have a baby/babies in the NICU.
Warrior Support Includes:
- Financial support ( stipend or gift cards for gas or groceries)
- Parental or caregiver emotional support (weekly visits and phone calls as often as the caregiver needs)
- Admission gift (journal, silicone bracelet with a matching stuffed animal
Post NICU
- Once a week meeting in person or virtual
- Set up medical equipment in the home if applicable
- Phone calls/text messages
- Assisting with phone calls to the provider
Latest Posts
From the Warrior Mom
Athena’s Story: A Journey of Empowerment and Hope
Athena’s Story: A Journey of Empowerment and Hope The journey to protect my daughter started while I was still carrying her. At 40, pregnancy posed many obstacles, not least of which was the fact that medical professionals classified me as being "advanced maternal...
Facing Your Fears
In my own life, I have come to realize fear is the anticipation of what may or may not happen. There are many studies that talk about how fear is a response to your brain chemistry. If I really look at what fear stands for, it is to face everything and recover. How do...
How to Silence the Chaos
For most of my life, I have chosen to see the blessing that can stem from challenges. Often, it is in the challenge and questioning why you have to go through emotional pain to emotionally and spiritually grow. It does not mean it’s easy or it will be painless,...
