Three years ago, a little girl came into my life that made me view so many things differently. One, is the Children's Hospital. My boyfriend, Tim, and I started dating just over three years ago. He has a daughter who had an extra special welcoming to the world. She was born at 23 weeks of pregnancy (full term pregnancies are 40 weeks;)). Lili was born weighing only one pound, and wasn't done fully developing, yet.

Putting myself in Tim's shoes just makes my heart hurt at the thought of having a newborn baby that might not live, or have the life you want them to have. I can only imagine what it must have been like, each sleepless night waiting for the nightmare to be over, and for Lili to be stable, healthy, and ready to go home. Not even able to hold his little girl, and comfort her through this scary time. The NICU staff was there to help Lili get on track, and keep that little heart beating. They made things a little easier for Tim when he couldn't be at the hospital by giving him a camera that made him feel like he was still there. He also received little keepsakes like Lili's first diaper, and her footprint (which was the size of half of my pinky). These little things mean the world to families who feel like their world has been turned upside down. When we donate, our money goes to things like NICview cameras, or keepsakes for the families. The money even helps fund parking and meal passes for families, because who wants to worry about having money for that when their baby is fighting for their life?

Hearing about each and every complication Lili had to go through during her first few weeks, months, and even years has made me appreciate all the help she's had from the NICU staff at the Children's Hospital. Lili is the most happy, healthy little three year old I've met. You'd never guess she went through surgery after surgery, and had the risk for what seemed like every possible complication out there. With the help of the NICU doctors and nurses, Lili soared through all the obstacles thrown at her, and is better than ever. You'd never believe her story if you just met her for the first time now. It's their dedication to their job that helps give hope to families without much left. The least we could do is donate, and/or walk to give back to the NICU staff and families who need our help.