Monroe’s story isn’t the typical NICU journey, but it’s ours—and just like other NICU parents, we share in the grief, heartache, joy, and love that come with this experience.
Monroe was born on February 9th, 2023, weighing 8 pounds 6 ounces. He was our big, healthy baby, and we were so thrilled. Like most babies, Monroe’s bilirubin levels were tested before we left the hospital. They told us that his levels were a little elevated, but they reassured us it wasn’t anything to worry about. “We’ll discharge you today, but come back tomorrow and we’ll draw another blood test to check again.”
Being first-time parents, we had no idea what to expect. We simply followed their instructions, trusting that everything would be okay. The next morning, at just two days old, Monroe’s bilirubin levels had skyrocketed to 17. Even then, the hospital staff didn’t seem alarmed. His pediatrician had scheduled an appointment for two days later, so we were told to follow up with the doctor and make a plan from there.
What we didn’t know at the time was that if an infant’s total bilirubin levels reach 30, it can cause irreversible brain damage known as Kernicterus. We were blissfully unaware of the danger Monroe was facing.
Two days later, we followed up with Monroe’s pediatrician. He sent us for another bilirubin test, which we did around 1:30 p.m. Afterward, the pediatrician and nurses kept calling the lab, trying to get Monroe’s test results. Each time, the lab told them that they hadn’t run the test yet and to be patient. Hours passed, and we had no idea how urgent the situation was. Five hours later, at 6 p.m., we finally received a call from the pediatrician.
I’ll never forget his words: “Kaley, this has become dangerous. You need to get to the NICU as quickly as possible. Monroe’s bilirubin level has come back at 27. You have three minutes to pack a bag. Once you arrive at the hospital, you run. Don’t stop at admissions, don’t let anyone slow you down—just run straight to the NICU. The NICU team is waiting for you.”
In that moment, my world stopped. I ran. With my heart racing and fear consuming me, I gathered what I could in just three minutes. The weight of the situation hit me hard, but I knew I had to trust my doctor and do what he said.
I rushed to the hospital, my hands trembling, and as soon as I got there, I did exactly what he told me—I ran straight past admissions, past the nurses, and straight to the NICU. The NICU team was waiting for us, and in that instant, I knew we were about to face the fight of our lives.
Monroe was placed under immediate care, and they began the process of treating him for severe jaundice. They worked tirelessly to stabilize him, but I felt like I had been hit by a ton of bricks. My sweet baby, the one I had so lovingly brought into this world just days before, was fighting for his life. The NICU became our home for the next several days, and the uncertainty of what the future held was suffocating.
But through it all, Monroe showed us just how strong he was. The team did everything they could, and with their care, Monroe’s condition improved. The NICU became our world, and we had to adjust to the constant fear and hope that we were doing everything we could for him. There were countless moments of fear, uncertainty, and exhaustion. But we held on to the hope that we could bring our baby home one day.
Monroe’s NICU journey lasted for what felt like an eternity, but through the determination and the incredible care of the NICU team, we were finally able to bring him home. He’s now growing and thriving, defying the odds that once seemed so overwhelming.
Every day, I am reminded of how fragile life is, but also of how incredibly strong our little ones can be. Monroe’s fight has taught me so much about love, strength, and resilience. Our NICU journey isn’t something I would wish on anyone, but it’s made me appreciate every single moment with my son even more.
Kaley’s story reminds us that sometimes life throws us into the unknown, and we have to navigate it with strength we didn’t know we had. The NICU is a place of uncertainty, but it is also a place of hope, healing, and miracles. Each day spent in the NICU is a reminder of how resilient babies can be, and how strong parents become through their journey. Monroe’s fight is a testament to the power of love, and the unbreakable bond between parent and child.