30 Jan Smith Family Story
The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a specialized unit of the hospital, and it had just become our second home for the next 68 days.
It wasn’t until one of our usual evening strolls with the dogs that I noticed the baby feeling a bit lower than usual. Given my status as a type one diabetic, I had to be vigilant and get to the doctor as soon as possible. The next morning I went to labor and delivery, where tests were performed, and it was quickly determined that I needed to get to Boise and wouldn’t be returning without a baby!
From that moment on, everything happened quickly—a whirlwind of action and decisions. Living in Sun Valley, we were completely overwhelmed and unprepared for Gunnar arriving so early. I was rushed onto an Air Med flight while Ben packed up the car and began the drive to Boise. The flight was quiet, but my mind raced with thoughts. Would he be okay? Would I be okay? The initial fear was all-consuming, but I clung to the fact that these doctors knew what they were doing, and somehow my fear turned to excitement.
By the time Ben got to the hospital, I had been moved from antepartum to the labor and delivery unit. It was go time! I texted my mom casually, “Legs are up, I’ll text after,” then placed my phone back on my chest and was instructed to start pushing. Meanwhile, a nurse by my side grabbed my phone and recorded the most precious video I own—Gunnar being placed on my chest for the first time, just for a few seconds. Gunnar made his entrance into the world, born 12 weeks early at just 2 pounds, 13 ounces. The team stabilized him immediately and surrounded him with expert care.
The NICU became our entire world. Each day was filled with milestones, some big, some small. We watched Gunnar grow stronger, his body working hard to catch up. Every ounce gained; every breath taken was a victory. The nurses and doctors became an extension of our family, guiding us through every step!
Being away from home for so long wasn’t easy, but we knew we were exactly where we needed to be. Gunnar needed us close, and we were committed to staying by his side every step of the way.
During this time, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho became a lifeline for us. Being more than 150 miles from home, we had no idea where we would stay or how we would manage. They gave us a place to rest, meals to keep us going, and a community of other families who understood exactly what we were going through. They took care of every last detail—from providing basic necessities to ensuring we never had to worry about food. The generosity of their volunteers and staff was overwhelming, especially during the holidays. They decorated the House, organized special meals, and even had gifts for the families staying there, making sure that even in the midst of uncertainty, we felt a sense of normalcy and warmth. The staff and volunteers at the front desk became our friends. I made daily visits to them, and they would talk to me, ask about Gunnar, and make sure we were doing well. They became close to me—they were the second people (aside from our families) that I shared our engagement with. They were as joyous as I was!
The kindness and generosity of everyone there lifted a huge weight off our shoulders, allowing us to focus entirely on Gunnar’s journey. It wasn’t just a place to stay—it was a place of comfort and hope.
Finally, after 68 long days, we were able to bring Gunnar home. It was a moment we had dreamed of since his birth, and while the journey ahead still held uncertainties, as he still needed open-heart surgery, we were ready. The lessons we learned—about resilience, gratitude, the power of a strong support system, and the outstanding medical professionals—will stay with us forever.
Now, after the surgery has been performed successfully, we watch Gunnar grow, his strength and determination continuing to amaze us. He is a reminder of how far we have come and the incredible people who helped us along the way. We will always be grateful to the NICU staff, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Idaho, and everyone who played a role in Gunnar’s journey. Their kindness and generosity carried us through the hardest days and gave us hope for the brightest future ahead.
~Smith Family | Bellevue, ID | 68 Nights at the House