I learned ...

FutureMrsDenman

That we have preemies representing gestational ages across the board, most of whom came home before their due date and many without any additional equipment.  Doesn't that offer an incredible amount of hope for preemie parents just starting their NICU journey?!  (Our) Preemies are AMAZING! 

Also ... The biggest ongoing worry for the majority of poll responders was feeding related.  And NICU bills are outrageous enough that they would consume most of our possessions, (work & worry) time, and first born children if not for insurance, but also rediculous enough so as to offer some comic relief.  

Thanks everyone for responding to the polls!  I hope that they do offer hope and that they let newbies know that they are not alone ... chances are there is someone out there on this board that has dealt with or is currently dealing with a similar situation and might have advice or be willing to commiserate (I can't spell worth anything) over it.

tierelieber

FutureMrsDenman- The polls were really an outstanding idea and I'm so glad that you came up with them! I totally meant the NICU bill poll as a joke, but I am glad that people responded truthfully. NICU bills are discussed so often on this board that I thought we needed to laugh a little about how ridiculous they really are.

I definitely think the polls will offer a lot of needed hope and guidance for new preemie parents!

SWMcFarland

I have to agree...I was pretty sure we were going to have a preemie, just didn't know how early we were going to have her.  I spent a long time on bedrest, so I lurked on this board for a long time.  You all are such an inspiration, and each baby is an absolute miracle!  It really did make it easier for me to know that other people have been exactly in my shoes and made it out just fine!

lstaylor73

It really was a great idea!  And I'm so happy to see so many people participating.  I love this board, and I honestly don't know how I would have gotten through everything without everyone here to help me.  It's amazing what a community of people can do for each other - and we haven't even met in real life yet!

(still crossing fingers for a Disney World get together)  

RRHsMom

I thought the polls were great too and thanks for making them inclusive of everyone.  I know some nicu mamas of older babies don't feel like they can post here and I think your polls showed that everyone is welcome who spent time in the nicu.  We are all bonded by such a common struggle that we all endured and I appreciate everyone's advice and support here!  

FutureMrsDenman

Thanks everyone!  I'm glad to see everyone participating and glad to hear the feedback about them.  I hope people keep the questions coming as they think of them ... I was going to post one about what people attribute the early arrival of their little one(s) to, but then I realized I would probably leave out a lot of possible causes I'm just not familiar with.  But I know people are always looking for someone who went through a similar pre-birth and birth experience or are at least curious as to how many others did ... Aw, heck ... I guess I'll go ahead and do it anyway.