Airam’s Story

Our NICU Journey with Airam

Baby Airam was born on 08/26/25 at 28 weeks by emergency C-section. We went to the hospital for abdominal pain and were told I was already in labor. Everything happened so fast, and it was an overwhelming mix of fear and emotions. All I could think about was that I had nothing ready for my baby.

After my C-section, we learned Airam needed to be transferred to another hospital because she was so small and having trouble breathing. She was taken to Moses NICU. Not being able to hold my baby right away was one of the most painful moments of my life.

During those early days, I met the Family Support Network of Central Carolina team. From the very beginning, they made me feel welcomed, supported, and understood. They took the time to listen to my story and helped me feel less alone. The first baby item I ever received was from them—a baby bath tub—and it meant more to me than they could ever know.

They invited me to NICU lunches, and those lunches became something I truly looked forward to. Listening to other parents share their stories gave me hope and reminded me that my baby was in good hands. I also loved doing crafts and creating memories for Airam during such a vulnerable time in my life. In those moments, I felt cared for and supported.

As time went on, Airam was finally allowed to wear clothes, but I didn’t have any for her. The FSNCC team gave me a large container filled with preemie baby clothes and told me to take whatever I wanted for my baby girl. I was so happy knowing I finally had clothes for her. They also gifted us a different book each week so I could read to Airam, which became very special to me.

Through FSNCC, I met my good friend Luisa, another NICU mom. We became very close, attending lunches together, doing crafts, and sharing our stories with new parents in the NICU. Having someone who truly understood what I was going through made such a difference.

Airam had an ileostomy pouch because one of her intestines was not fully formed. She had it for over two months, and when the day of her ileostomy reversal surgery finally arrived, I was extremely nervous. Luisa stayed with me the entire day, even though it was her own discharge day from the NICU. I will always be thankful for her support and love during that moment.

When the surgery went well, I shared the news with everyone at FSNCC, and they were all so happy for us. That surgery was the final step before we could go home. When we finally received our discharge date, it was a bittersweet moment. I had built such strong bonds with the nurses, doctors, volunteers, and FSNCC team.

On discharge day, so many people came to our room to say goodbye to Airam. She was so loved by everyone. Before we left, we were given so many thoughtful gifts that we will always cherish.

My family and I are forever grateful for the love, support, and encouragement we received throughout our NICU journey. A thank you will never be enough. Family Support Network gave us hope, connection, and memories that we will carry with us forever.

To all families currently in the NICU: never lose faith and hold on to hope. Trust in God—His timing and purpose are perfect.

-Alisson Torres