July 16: Helping Parents of Preemies

When New Jersey resident Tami C. Gaines’ twins, Trey and Bria, were born prematurely, the babies barely weighed 1 pound 13 ounces, and weren’t expected to live.  Though Gaines was tempted to sink into despair, her two other children helped her discover the strength to cope with what was happening.

In the ensuing months, the twins fought numerous health problems including a blood infection (Bria) and heart issues (Trey).  Yet the babies were resilient and survived, though they have lingering medical needs.

Gaines herself became a stronger person in the process, and has written a book entitled Preemie Parents: 26 Ways to Grow With Your Premature Baby.  She told the New York Daily News, “You have to separate yourself from being a parent who wants to have a nervous breakdown…and be an advocate who needs to learn how to ask the right questions.”

Gaines’ ultimate message is this: “No matter how dark things get, you have to find that little piece of light to hold on to.  That little piece of light will guide you out of the darkness.”

Children were being brought to Him…that He might lay His hands on them and pray.  (Matthew 19:13)

Watch over our children, Lord.