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What happens when a grandmother steps into the world of the NICU, not just as a concerned relative but as an integral part of the care team? Leslie Napolitano opens up about her unique journey in this episode. Walking side by side with her daughter, Jen Canvasser, she navigated the labyrinth of this unfamiliar terrain when her grandchild Micah was admitted to the NICU. Leslie shares the raw emotions of her experiences and advocates for the inclusion of extended family in the care team. She stresses the importance of parental consent and the need for clear communication from the onset.

In a moving conversation, Leslie peels back layers of the profound topic of grief, underlining the significance of presence and kindness in the face of despair. She discusses the power of transforming a heart-wrenching experience into a catalyst for change, seen through Jen's initiative - the NEC Society. Leslie's unwavering support for her daughter’s cause illuminates the healing that can come from channeling heartbreak into purposeful action. She also shares the inspiring inception of the Book and Blood Drive initiatives, started in Mica's honor, which continue to touch lives. This enlightening discussion promises to tug at your heartstrings while demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit.

As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below.

Enjoy!