In this week’s podcast episode, Emilee shares Part 1 of her son Oakley’s unexpected NICU journey, a story marked by emergency decisions, a rare genetic diagnosis, and a powerful full-circle moment within her own family.

After a healthy pregnancy, Emilee delivered Oakley six weeks early via emergency C-section when she noticed decreased movement in the middle of the night. What began as low blood sugar and a short NICU stay in their small Colorado town quickly turned into a transfer to Children’s Hospital, where Oakley was diagnosed with a rare genetic deletion on his X chromosome called UBE2A.

In an emotional twist, Emilee's family soon discovered that her older brother, who had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy his entire life, shares the exact same genetic deletion.

In this conversation, Emilee's shares the moment she knew something wasn’t right, the whirlwind of those early NICU days, and what it was like to receive an uncertain diagnosis. She also reflects on growing up alongside a medically complex sibling and how the strength her parents modeled now shapes the way she and her husband parent Oakley.

Emilee's story is one of resilience and unexpected hope in the middle of the unknown. We hope it reminds you that even in moments of uncertainty, you are capable, you are supported, and you are never walking this road alone.

To get connected with DNM:

Website | Private Facebook Group | Instagram

Support the show