Like all mothers whose babies arrive early or with complications that send them to the NICU there is an eyes-wide-open moment when you are faced with how vulnerable we all are. The gift of becoming a mother to a baby born too early is that you will never take even the simplest of moments for granted. My 26-weeker just passed his eye exam at the DMV while applying for a driver’s permit. My heart is full.
This is a very special Mother’s Day. Not only is it my first Mother’s day as a mommy, but it is also the first Mother’s day that I realize HOW much my own mother loves me. The love from a mother is so great, so huge, that it can not be explained. It can only be felt. It is also so special because I get to celebrate with the two people who have so thankfully made me a mother, Eric and Aaron. I thank the universe for bringing these people into my life. Nothing could make me happier than waking up to Eric’s jibber jabber or smiling face. To whoever is listening, thank you. I know so many incredible mothers that have given me so much support. Thank you. I have met so many strong and gracious mothers of the tiniest babies. To all the NICU moms, I think of you and your beautiful healthy, happy babies every day. Alan, Spencer, Pacita, Ryan, James, Christopher, Emma, Morgan, Danik, your mothers are courgaeous women. My boys …
At 4:34 p.m. on September 7, 2006, Tara gave birth to our son Eric Thomas DelloIacono Thies at California Pacific Medical Center in San Francisco! Born only 26 weeks and 2 days into Tara’s pregnancy, Eric is a real preemie but he is healthy and safe in the wonderful care of CPMC’s Newborn ICU.Eric’s birth weight was 1 lb. 15 oz and he is 14 inches long. Mommy is doing well and has already started pumping milk to feed little E. He is so cute and very feisty. One of the biggest concerns for newborn preemies is their breathing. Eric came out crying, which was joy to our ears, and so far he has not once needed to be placed on a ventilator.We can visit Eric at any time day or night and if all continues to go well with his development in the NICU, he could be able to come home in December.We love him so much and we thank everyone for all the love and support.love, Aaron and Tara