On this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, host AshleyO’Neil is joined by Wakeya Belt, who shares her journey through the NICU with her son Kelvin, who faced significant medical challenges during his 10-month stay. She discusses the emotional turmoil of being a NICU parent, the lack ofsupport, and the impact of grief on her family. Wakaya also highlights the importance of writing as a form of healing and how she honors her son's memory through celebrations and storytelling. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and the ongoing journey of coping with loss. You do not want to miss this episode!
Are you interested in connecting with Wakeya?
Email: Shaebelt729@gmail.com
Book: Life In The NICU Our Family Story: 8 Steps For Navigating The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Article Interview: We Were Here: Black Infant Loss in D.C.
The Ask a NICU Mama Podcast is brought to you by It’s a NICU World!
🌍 About It’s a NICU World
It’s a NICU World is a community dedicated tosupporting families navigating life in and beyond the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. From journals and advocacy to the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, we’re here to bring real stories, hard truths, and hope to every NICU and medical family.
📘 Learn more: www.nicuworld.com
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In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, host Ashley O'Neil speaks with Brianna, a fellow medical mama, about their shared experiences of navigating the complexities of parenting children with medical needs. Brianna shares her journey from pregnancy to receiving a life-altering diagnosis for her daughter, Violet, and the challenges of being a single parent after the loss of her husband. The conversation delves into themes of grief, resilience, and the importance of community support, offering insights and encouragement for other parents facing similar struggles. You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in connecting with Brianna? --> medicalmomdiaries
On this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, host AshleyO’Neil is joined by Erica Shoemate, who shares her deeply personal journey through pregnancy and the challenges she faced along the way. From her initial hesitation about becoming a mom to the heartbreaking news she received during her anatomy scan; Erica walks us through the emotional and medical decisions that shaped her NICU experience. She also talks about the importance of supportand advocacy for moms—especially in the Black community—and how her own story has inspired her to help others find their voice and their healing. You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in connecting with Erica?
Website: www.ericalshoemate.comInstagram: @nias_journey
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, host AshleyO'Neil speaks with Jocelyn Duvall, a NICU mama who shares her heart-wrenching journey of delivering her daughter at 25 weeks and the challenges she faced in the NICU. Jocelyn discusses the emotional toll of losing her daughter, the lackof support from the healthcare system, and her mission to create a nonprofit foundation in her daughter's honor. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, awareness of pregnancy and infant loss, and the need for better resources for families navigating the NICU experience.
Interested in learning more about Jocelyn and the Forever Jewelz Foundation? Please check out her website and Instragram.
The Forever Jewelz 1st Annual 5K will be held on 10/25/25 in Lorton, VA. Registration closes on 10/11. I will be there, will you?
Website: foreverjewelz.org
Instragram: foreverjewelz_
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, host Ashley O'Neil speaks with Dr. Melinda Elliott, Chief Medical Officer for Prolacta Bioscience, about the critical importance of nutrition for premature babies. They discuss the unique nutritional needs of these infants, the role of human milk fortifiers, and the advocacy parents must engage in to ensure their babies receive the best care possible in the NICU. Their conversation also explores the emotional ups and downs of the NICU journey—from the challenges families face to the joy of discharge day—highlighting how support, advocacy, and open communication can make all the difference. You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in learning more about human milk-based fortifiers (HMF)?
Check out Prolacta Science’s ParentSupport Page.
Follow Prolacta Bioscience on Instagram @ prolacta_bioscience
And review these studies:
ASSAD et al: Conducted at the hospital where Dr. Elliott practices. Demonstrates reduced incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), reduced length of stay, and cost savings.
SULLIVAN et al: Study demonstrated significantly lower rate of NEC when EHMD was used.
HAIR et al: Demonstrated that premature infants fed an EHMD had a significantly lower incidence of NEC, mortality, late-onset sepsis, ROP, and BPD, compared with infants fed cow milk-based nutrition.
In this episode of Ask a NICU Mama, host AshleyO’Neil sits down with Cathy Garrett, host of the Birth Trauma Stories podcast. Cathy opens up about her two NICU journeys, traumatic births, and the challenges of long-term recovery. Together, they discuss motherhood, resilience, faith, and the vital role of community support. Cathy also shares what inspired her to start her own podcast to help other parents navigate birth trauma and find healing. 💛 You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in learning more about Cathy?
Instagram: birthtraumastoriespodcastWebsite: www.birthtraumastories.com
Podcast: Birth Trauma Stories Podcast
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, hostAshley O'Neil speaks with Kirill, the vice president of community engagement for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of DC. They discuss the vital support provided to families with children in the NICU, the history and mission of the Ronald McDonald House, and the various services offered to alleviate the stress of families during medical crises. Kirill shares his personal journey and the importance of community involvement, partnerships with hospitals, and upcoming events to support the organization. You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in learning more about the DC Ronald McDonaldHouse? We check out their website at rmhcdc.org.
Please also consider signing up to participate in the RMHAnnual Red Shoe 5k on October 5th, 2025 at the National Harbor at RedShoe5k.org.
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, I amjoined by Deb Discenza, a global preemie advocate, author, nonprofit founder and so much more. She shares her journeyas a NICU mama, detailing her experiences from pregnancy challenges to the emotional rollercoaster of having a baby in the NICU. The discussion highlights the importance of advocacy, support systems, and the long-term impacts ofprematurity on families. Deb shares insights on navigating the healthcare system, the emotional toll of NICU stays, and the need for better resources and communication for parents. You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in connecting with Deb?
Website: https://preemieworld.org/LinkedIn: Deb Discenza
Instagram: @preemiecrystalball and @ preemieworld
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, I’mjoined by Shannon, who shares her powerful journey as a NICU mom to both of her children. She opens up about the challenges of preterm birth, the emotional weight of a NICU stay, and the added complexities of being a hard of hearingmother during a pandemic. Shannon also reflects on her growth, the role of support systems, and her advocacy for greater representation and resources for hard of hearing mothers in the parenting community. You do not want to missthis episode!
Are you interested in connecting with Shannon? You can follow her on Instagram @shanb_mamasqd.
You can find more resources, stories, and support byvisiting our website at www.nicuworld.comor connecting with us on social media @itsanicuworld.
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, I’mjoined by Shireen and Adrianna, chairs of the Mount Sinai Parent Advisory Committee in Toronto, Canada. Together, we dive into their personal journeys as NICU parents—the challenges they faced, the resilience they discovered, and the power of community support. They open up about the impact of preeclampsia, the importance of connecting with other NICU families, and the vital role advocacy plays in navigating the NICU. We also discuss the incredible work they do with the Parent Advisory Committee to create a better experience for families. Most importantly, we talk about the ongoing journey of healing, growth, and findinghope after the NICU. You do not want to miss this episode.
You can learn more about the Mount Sinai Parent AdvisoryCommittee by following them on Instagram @msnicupac.
In this heartfelt episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast,host Ashley O'Neil speaks with Fatima, a NICU mother who shares her profound journey with her daughter Amira, who spent six months in the NICU. Fatima discusses the challenges of premature birth, the importance of advocacy, and the deep connections formed with the NICU staff. She reflects on her grief, the cultural aspects of loss, and how she honors Amira's memory through acts of love and support for other families. This conversation serves as a reminder of the strength found in community and the importance of sharing stories of loss and resilience. You do not want to miss this episode!
You can follow Fatima on Instagram @bravemimiscorner
Don’t forget to check out our website at www.nicuworld.com and follow Kolin and I on Instagram at @ itsanicuworld
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, I amjoined by a fellow micro-preemie mama, Ashley Aloba, whose story will stay with you. From developing preeclampsia to delivering her son Elias at just 25 weeks, Ashley opens up about navigating two very different NICU experiences, the heartbreak of loss, and the long journey of healing. This is a conversation about grief, resilience, and the way sharing our stories can create hope in even the darkest moments. And throughout it all, Ashley’s love for her son is unmistakable—you can feel his light shining through every word.
You can follow and/or reach out to Ashley on Instagram @yourqueenashley. Please stay tuned for updates regarding Ashley’s non-profit E.L.I.A.S. Resourcing where Every Life is a Story just waiting to be heard.
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, I am joined by Madisen, a fellow micro-preemie mama, who bravely shares her emotional and physical journey through a high-risk twin pregnancy and a 164-day NICU stay. Madisen opens up about the challenges of giving birth at 22 weeks gestation, the realities of life in the NICU, and the often-overlooked transition from hospital to home. Her story is one of deep resilience, faith, and the power of community. From navigating medical uncertainty to celebrating small milestones, Madisen reminds us of the strength found in NICU families and the importance ofhope, advocacy, and support through every step of the journey. You do not want to miss this episode!
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, I am joined by Ashley Preston, a NICU mama who shares her powerful journey with her son, Carter. They discuss the challenges of a high-risk pregnancy, the emotional roller coaster of the NICU experience, and the transition to home life. Ashley also talks about the establishment of her nonprofit, Carter G. Cares, aimed at supporting NICU families. The conversation highlights the importance of community, mental health support, and the personal growth that comes from navigating the NICU journey. You do not want to miss this episode!
Interested in learning more about Ashley and Carter G.Cares?
Instagram: @Cartergcaresinc
Website: www.cartergcares.org
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, host Ashley O'Neil speaks with attorney David Grzechowiak from Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch and Norman about the complexities of medical malpractice and birth injury cases. David explains what constitutes medical malpractice, the steps families should take if they suspect negligence, and the legal processes involved. He discusses the financial aspects of pursuing a case, including how costs are handled and the importance of trust funds for settlements. David emphasizes the importance of seeking professional legal advice and reassures families that they are not alone in their journey. For many NICU families, birth trauma or preventable medical errors may have played a role in their child’s journey, but these situations can be confusing and overwhelming to navigate. This episode is here to offer insight, clarity, and support.
Interested in contacting David and Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch and Norman?
Website: www.malpracticeteam.com
Contact number: 410-998-3600
In this heartfelt episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast,host Ashley O'Neil speaks with Adriauna Davis, a NICU mom who shares her journey of having a micro preemie, the emotional toll of a NICU stay, and her advocacy work through the Harmonie Grace Foundation. The conversation delvesinto the importance of mental health support for NICU families, the challenges of navigating grief, and the impact of community support. Adriauna also discusses her book, 'Perfect Harmonie,' and the events she hosts to raiseawareness and support for NICU families. You do not want to miss this episode!
Want to find out more about Adriauna?
Website: Home | Harmonie GraceFoundation
IG: @TheHarmonieGraceFoundation
Find her book - Perfect Harmonie: My Journey as a PreemieMom https://a.co/d/0FdWWxe
In this powerful episode of Ask a NICU Mama, hostAshley O'Neil sits down with Nicole Heidger, a courageous mother who shares her deeply personal journey through a traumatic birth, life in the NICU, and the heartbreaking loss of her son, Kannon. Nicole opens up about navigating grief,the lasting impact of insensitive comments, and how she found purpose through advocacy and community.
Together, they discuss the importance of honoring ourbabies, creating space for bereaved mothers, and pushing for meaningful changes in maternal health policies. This conversation is a tender reminder that through connection and shared stories, healing and hope are possible.
You can learn more about Nicole and her journey on Instagram @Kannonsmom
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, host Ashley O'Neil speaks with Katie Taylor, co-founder and CEO of Child Life On Call. They discuss the vital role of Child Life Specialists in supporting families navigating complex medical journeys, particularly in the NICU and PICU. Katie shares insights on bonding techniques for parents and siblings, the importance of open communication about medical procedures, and the emotional support provided during end-of-life situations. The conversation also touches on the creation of the Support Spot app, which aims to empower families with resources and tools for effective advocacy in healthcare settings. Additionally, they explore the importance of self-care for caregivers and the need for community among Child Life Specialists.Find Katie here -->
Website: ChildLife On Call
🎧 Host of @childlifeoncall podcast📲 @supportspot app for parents
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, host AshleyO'Neil speaks with Cindy Rahman, the CEO and president of March of Dimes. Cindy shares her journey with March of Dimes, an organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant health. She discusses the organization's history, its current focus on preterm birth and maternal mortality, and the importance of advocacy and community support. Cindyemphasizes the need for awareness and action to address the health crisis affecting moms and babies in the U.S. Through sharing personal stories and community events like March for Babies, the organization aims to foster connection and support among families while pushing for legislative change to improve health outcomes. You do not want to miss this episode!
In this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast, host AshleyO’Neil speaks with Latoya Blueford who shares her profound NICU journey with her daughter Skylar, who was born prematurely and faced numerous medicalchallenges. The discussion delves into the emotional rollercoaster of NICU life, the transition to home, and the heartbreaking experience of losing Skylar. LaToya reflects on her grief, the creation of The Skylar Project to support other NICU families, and the ongoing journey of healing. Thisconversation emphasizes the importance of community, support, and honoring the memory of lost loved ones. You do not want to miss this episode.
Website: theskylarproject.org
Instagram: the_skylarproject
