The experience gave her a new perspective on the families she has cared for throughout her career.
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Caitlin Vaccaro has spent the past 10 years helping families get through their toughest days as a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse. Now, she finds herself in the other side of caring She gave birth to son Caleb, who was born at 34 weeks, six weeks early.
“When I was born prematurely, I thought, ‘No, I have to spend more time with my colleagues,'” Vaccaro said.
For Vaccaro, however, this NICU stay felt different than most. After years of working with the same staff who now care for her son, the halls and faces around her are familiar.
Now, she relies on friends and colleagues she has worked with over the years. That support becomes invaluable during emotional times, she said.
“Yesterday, a friend of mine said, ‘He was crying, so I came over and hugged him because I knew you needed to rest,'” she recalled. “Not just anyone would do that. But they’re my family, so he’s part of their family now.”
The experience also gave Vaccaro a new perspective on the families she has cared for throughout her career.
“This experience has made me even more grateful for my NICU parents and the support they need,” she said.
Her husband said the experience also deepened his appreciation for the work done in the NICU.
“Coming here, I have a completely different appreciation for what she does and the people who work here,” he said. “It’s unbelievable.”
For nurses who have known Vaccaro for years, caring for Keller is more personal than typical patient tasks.
“You just want to provide the best care because I love her as a person,” one nurse said.
A workplace friendship that began a decade ago is now helping Vaccaro’s family navigate one of the most exciting times of their lives.
“Very special, special moment. I’m happy for him, glad he’s healthy,” a nurse said. “He’s obviously in the NICU, so it’s not the best situation, but he’s doing great.”
Doctors are monitoring Caleb’s eating, weight gain and blood sugar levels before he goes home. His parents say he is doing well so far and is on track to achieve expected milestones during his time in the NICU.
