The Story That Started It All
In 2019, Ashley Ham and Martha Mink (both mothers of babies born prematurely) met over a cup of coffee and discovered the transformational power of community and friendship for NICU mothers. The healing experience from their connection inspired Ashley & Martha to found Dear NICU Mama, an entirely volunteer and NICU mama-led organization that was designed to connect, encourage, and create community with past and present NICU moms.
Today, our non-profit organization provides educational and peer-support events, online advocacy, merchandise collections, and a signature podcast that helps reach thousands of women each month. Founded in Fargo-Moorhead, we’ve now been able to reach moms across the nation and the globe. 1 in every 10 babies are admitted to the NICU in the United States, so we know our work of supporting moms is far from finished.
Community.
Support.
Connection.
“Traumatized human beings recover in the context of relationships.”
- Bessel van der Kolk, renowned trauma expert.
Seeing your child fight for their life while hooked up to wires and tubes is a traumatic experience. When all you want to do is hold and bond with your baby but can’t, it’s a deeply emotional experience - one that deserves compassion, support, and a strong community around you. Although NICU hospitals are incredible, they may not be equipped to support family members in their acute mental distress. Nearly 60% of parents who have had children in the NICU are diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) following their stay. Stigma and access often prevent these mamas from pursuing mental health support or sharing experiences with loved ones.
This is where Dear NICU Mama steps in. Our free, community-based trauma-informed support offerings give NICU Mamas the chance to heal at their own pace. Although peer support is not a substitute for professional medical or mental healthcare, it’s a vital part of trauma healing.
Our sisterhood provides validation, support, encouragement, and unconditional love for NICU Mamas in need. Check out our available programs and services.
By The Numbers
The work of our donors and supporters has allowed us to have this incredible impact:
Individual families reached via Hospital Outreach Materials.
Members of our Virtual Support Discussion Group
Pieces of Walking Letter of Hope Apparel Shipped Worldwide
Attendees of Dear NICU Mama Events & Webinars
Hear From The Sisterhood
Through the work we do, we aim to provide hope & connection to NICU mothers. Hear from some of our sisters who have benefited from the community provided by Dear NICU Mama:
Sisterhood Stories | Vilma + Bradley
Sisterhood Stories | Lindsay + Sloane
Sisterhood Stories | Sarah
“Dear NICU Mama made me feel heard and supported when I felt like no one understood. My son’s NICU stay following our traumatic birth was incredibly isolating. I felt like I couldn’t talk about our experience- seeing posts by other new parents hurt as our birth was so different and scary. I posted in Dear NICU Mama and was amazed by the virtual love from moms who understood all over the country!”
-KELSEY
Connect With Us
Looking to connect with the Dear NICU Mama team? We’re looking forward to meeting you and hearing your story. Fill out the form below to get connected!
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