Kate Robson holds her firstborn, Maggie, after she was born at 25 weeks. Photo: Courtesy of Kate Robson
When someone asks me what the hardest thing was about having two babies in the NICU after they were both born premature, the answer comes very easily: “Having to leave them every night and go home with empty arms to an empty house.” Even now, 12 years later, I can remember how powerless and sad I felt walking away from my sick newborns.
I knew my babies were in good hands. I also knew I had no alternative, but it was a painful separation every time I left. I slept terribly at home, wondering how they were doing, and had to content myself with occasional phone calls to patient nurses who would reassure me that all was well. By the time I was able to take my babies home, I was an exhausted wreck. Because I?ve had the privilege of working with NICU families as a family support specialist for the past seven years, I know I?m not alone in these feelings and experiences. Hundreds of parents have shared similar stories with me. This forced separation gives rise to feelings of guilt, anxiety and depression. It can also make it harder for babies to bond with parents and develop that beautiful attachment that will sustain their well-being as they grow.

So I cannot overstate how happy I am to see the details of a first in Canada?a new unit opening at BC Women?s Hospital that allows moms to sleep in the same room as their newborn babies w...