Born Too Soon

I wrote this poem when Madison was in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) at Swedish Hospital sometime when she was about ten weeks old. For those of you that don't know, Madison was born around 27 weeks gestation at 1 lb 6 oz. Her lungs just starting to flutter and not yet able to breathe on her own, and nurses and doctors were doing everything they can to save her life just minutes after she is born. This poem is about the day Madison was born, and I followed Madison to the NICU from the delivery room after Allison had an emergency Caesarian. I hope you enjoy the poem about my first hour or so with Madison.

Born Too Soon

Little Miracle born too soon, so small on the table

Three nurses working on you

They stuff a tube down your throat

Don't worry Honey, it's to help you breathe

So fragile, I can't pick you up

To hold you or kiss you

Your skin is transparent

I can see all your insides

You're not expected to make it

No worries, I've been talking with the Man upstairs

You look up to me

Weighed down with tubes and wires

Your gaze warms me with the love you give

You're just happy to be out

Sharing a special private moment with your Daddy

Even though the hospital is bustling about

That bond we share will never be broken

Because the love we share is eternal

And because of God's mercy and your hard work

We'll share our lifetime together

Gregg