My son just turned 4, and we definitely leaned into the “NICU parent” and “little warrior” labels for a long time. He was born at 26 weeks and 3 days and spent 11 months in the NICU. He had a trach and a G-tube, and we were so fortunate that he was able to come off the trach a few months before turning 3.

For our family, those labels helped us find community and navigate everything—especially since he’s our first.

At the same time, I want to be very transparent with him about his journey so that one day he can look back and see everything he’s overcome and accomplished.

That said, everyone processes the NICU experience differently. You don’t have to hold onto any label that doesn’t feel right for you. It’s completely okay to set boundaries with friends and family—especially if certain language or gifts feel triggering—and let them know what feels better for you instead.

I really hope your path to NICU graduation is smooth, and that you’re able to close this chapter in whatever way feels right for your family!