Our twins were born prematurely at 32 weeks weighing 2lb14oz and 3lb9oz. They made an unexpected arrival. Knowing that with twins I was high risk I prepared myself mentally (I thought) for the possibility of premature babies needing a NICU stay.

No one can really prepare you though. Daily worry, stress, hope, beauty, love, and sometimes anger were just a few of the emotions throughout the tears and smiles. Our twins were fighters and in turn I believe we, as new parents, became stronger together and learned that perseverance is the key to their future.

Those emotions flare up on occasion. Especially, now as the twins' 2nd birthday is near. It was all scary and moving, but our little fighters are thriving. We are blessed. Only NICU parents know those emotions and know that fight and perseverance is in them. It burns up from the ember we never knew could be sparked. We are in this together good and bad outcomes.

The doctors and nurses are superheroes and I thank them in prayer daily. To the angels, premature babies still with us, and parents. Fight on. Many more unexpected turns await us, but I'm confident in our perseverance no matter the obstacle.