31 Week Birth Story (+preterm labor tips!)

[@Han.Dunigan]

She saved someone's life and passed the NCLEX while in labor?!?!?! She's a freaking super hero!

[@tammypham1024]

YES!

[@deborahkennedy3084]

T

[@debaterforhim]

The NCLEX is no joke. Superhero is not an understatement.

[@marlenewulf5051]

Meredith is so strong. The pain in her eyes is real and absolutely heartbreaking. I’m praying for you and baby jack. I hope your heart heals as he grows and gets stronger ❤️

[@JessicaMainous]

Literally just cried hearing about your sister taking her NCLEX and saving someone’s life all while in labor 😭😭👏🏼👏🏼 Hello, superwoman! 👋🏼🙌🏼

[@spiritualhousewifery7705]

Man, when she was talking about being fully dilated, I just wanted to cry for her. What an incredibly overwhelming and traumatizing experience! Especially since she had an epidural last time, to then be experiencing that level of pain and coping with the trauma of a preterm delivery. The pain in her eyes is palpable. I pray that she will find healing in time from this intense experience.

[@personatalie790]

Nurse here of 7 years and pregnant! I'll tell you what, there's nothing easy or casual about taking the NCLEX! What a freaking badass Meredith is! Congrats on the arrival of your baby, Meredith, we see your struggle and your strength. You are amazing for your bravery this far and I wish you and little guy all the love!

[@ashb2404]

Even the weakest prayer from a mother's heart is heard loud and clear by God... You don't need words, Mama... God is hearing your heart completely...

[@abigailcole9172]

Crying watching this. Just had my baby perfectly healthy and couldn’t imagine going through this. You and your sister are SO COURAGEOUS AND STRONG. Praying for her and her sweet baby!

[@glorialara447]

I lost my daughter at birth almost 8 months ago. I was 38 weeks pregnant and I am still in so much pain emotionally. I am very sorry what happened. Its horrible how much pain and trauma this events can cause. I send you strenght. I wish my daughter would be here too.

[@didemergin7478]

I Am so sorry to hear this . Just know I felt your pain even though we never met.

[@didemergin7478]

Just sending you peace love and compassion

[@Shalomfriend]

God bless you! I’m so so sorry for your loss

[@violet9777]

When your sister said that she wanted to hear her baby cry is EXACTLY the way i felt when i went to see my daughter for the first time when she was in NICU. She was born at 34 weeks 3lbs 13oz 17in long & when i got to see her the next day after delivery it was so much at one time and i said out loud to my partner that i wanted to hear her cry and i essentially felt mocked by the nurses for saying that. I went back to my room and cried cause i felt stupid for saying that but i truly wanted to hear her cry to know she was okay. I dont know why my mind associated that with her being okay but it did and i just wanted to hear it. Hearing her say the same makes me feel less alone. My little lady didn’t stay in the NICU for as long as her baby will but everything she is feeling is what i felt. Take care Meredith, you guys are lucky to have each other during this time. I wish i had a sister that was able to relate to me. Many blessings for your little baby❤️

[@claracatalina81]

Mama of a 25 weeker here, my baby girl spent many months in the Nicu and I feel you so much on the fragility and scariness of the situation, especially during those first weeks. It's hard to describe - my 5 year old son gave me his teddy bear when I was admitted to the hospital, and I think I slept with it every night for the first month she was in the Nicu. I love what Jess says at the end about letting your loved ones know how weak you feel so that they can jump in and support you. Sending my support and best wishes to Meredith and baby - you are a super mama and every day will get better.

[@elissarobles1296]

I had my son at 30 weeks and this just hit so close to home

[@pinkkandyflossm]

My love. You are so in my thoughts. We will lift you through this. I don't know if this is anything at all.. but I was born at 26 weeks. Back in 1987. 2lbs. Everything is going to just fine. You are doing a PHENOMENAL job. Sending all of my love.

[@melanysmiles1917]

Meredith, you are a SUPERwoman. Thanks for your vulnerability and for sharing your story while it’s still so fresh. Thinking and praying for you often. You’ve got this because God’s got you.

[@katiethompson2214]

Both of you are such incredible, strong women. Meredith is going to touch so many lives as a nurse. Thank you both for sharing. Prayers for your sister and baby Jack ❤️

[@Ride-sq6xg]

I went through early labor / contractions at 33 weeks. Luckily the medication worked for me and stopped the labor. Then at almost 42 weeks I had to be induced, baby girl forgot she needed to come out. I am sharing to show it can go differently as well. Much strength to your family.

[@TonidaTyger]

Do you remember the medication they provided to you? I would like to ask my doctor about it, if I ever need to. Thanks

[@Ride-sq6xg]

I am sorry but I don’t

[@oliviagardner190]

This has to be one of the craziest stories I’ve ever heard! She is an absolute hero. So impressed and inspired by her strength.

[@karenlee8583]

Meredith you’re a rockstar! We have such similar stories! I am also an RN and I also had my son at 31 weeks 3 months ago, for sudden placental abruption. I know how you feel. I felt like my body failed me and I suffered immense guilt. I’d cry leaving the hospital everyday empty handed. But know that your son is a rockstar just like you and Preemie babies are incredibly strong, smart, and resilient. Praying for a speedy discharge and take care of yourself ❤️

[@alycecline5053]

Jessica please tell your sister that we're praying for her and her sweet little baby praying for strength and wisdom.

[@nataliechristine4934]

You two are amazing in so many ways. Praying for Jack. You’re a hero in more ways than one.

[@ramonagaerin258]

Sending positive thoughts. My heart broke when you started crying. You are so lucky to have Jessica there with you.

[@kaylas6800]

Your sister is so strong and she is going to be such a role model for your kids and hers, and what a story to tell your kids when they are older

[@Elly4s]

Aww, Meredith! My prayers are with you and your baby! I’m one week postpartum and literally cried through this entire video while clutching my newborn. My heart hearts for you being separated from your child. How blessed are we to live in this era of modern medicine ❤️ please keep us updated on his progress and how you are managing...I know you will be on my heart a lot until I hear that your son is home!

[@kristendlugosch4923]

Wow Meredith the strength behind your eyes is powerful. Thank you for being so vulnerable. This is helping so many people. I see you and I am thinking of you and your precious baby boy. ♥️

[@hollylloyd690]

Sending loads of love and blessings your way. I’m 38 weeks pregnant and have been feeling impatient for baby to arrive so this gave me a reality check about how lucky I am. You are both so strong and amazing xxx

[@UncommonGift]

🙄

[@petrasvrzic4828]

You are in my mind🥰 I am 29 weeks pregnant and worried that something could get wrong, but after I watched video I am feeling much better cause I feel how strong you were and you are and that gives me streinght🙏🏻

[@darianalexi]

I have those hot tears rolling down my face now. Meredith I felt your overwhelm/fear when you were speaking. I pray that God wraps you, baby Jack, and the rest of your family in his arms with warm, love, and his guidance. 💓 Sending love

[@glorialara447]

I just also wanted to point out how love you both have for eachother. I love how supportive you are on your Sister. Its beautiful. Not everyone is that way. ✨

[@jennifermaley9589]

I just watched this after I saw the video yesterday where you were home with your son! First I have to say you are amazing and so strong! To save a woman's life, having contractions, taking your nursing boards and passing...... incredible and congratulations! I also would like to say my 3rd son was born at 31 weeks as well via emergency c-section...I had never experienced a c-section....he weighed 3lbs 12.6 oz and lost weight as your son did. I can see the pain in your eyes knowing you had to keep leaving the hospital without him. My son had a lot of Brady's ...is that how you spell it sorry if not, but was sent home with an apnea monitor and it gave me peace of mind and the day they took it I had a major anxiety attack. Getting back to leaving your baby I will never ever forget that time as I literally sobbed uncontrollably until I could get back to him the next day. My mom and sister stepped in and took care of our older two children which was amazing. I think it's wonderful you were willing to share this as I believe you will help others in this situation. I tested positive for labor hormones at 28 weeks....we knew he would be early from the moment I found out I was pregnant. The medicine to keep me pregnant got me to 31 weeks. I can proudly say he is now 14 years old and you would never know he was premature! Sounds like your son's doing Wonderful from the update I watched yesterday and congratulations for getting your sweet baby home with you and everything else you achieved! Until you're a NICU parent you don't quite understand it all but unfortunately when you become one you will never forget certain sounds and more. Also I was able to support my friend when she delivered at 26 weeks 11 months to the day after my son was born and in the same NICU. Her daughter Is now 13 with zero signs of her being born so early. Last thing I will say is yes tell those around you when you are needing help or not feeling ok. It's so important to allow help!

[@isabellarainwater-paris3304]

Sending you love Meredith! I couldn’t imagine your situation. You are loved and your family is going to be okay. Little Jack and you are so strong, you’re doing amazing!!

[@ladanseuse010293]

So incredibly inspired by your bravery and strength to share this story so that this may support other mommas out there. Sending love and prayers!

[@jessicawarner7634]

I know no one ever wants anything like this to happen, but I'm grateful that people like your sister are willing to share. Maybe before someone is about to have a baby isn't the best time to listen, but as someone who has had circumstances out of my control with my two births, it's comforting to hear these stories instead of the perfect quick deliveries we all want. Feel less alone and grateful. Thank you

[@emilyreinhardt8170]

I cried right along with you as a mom who gave birth 7 months ago, 6 weeks too early. I remember thinking the exact same things when they said it was time to push. So glad you have so much support! Give yourself so much grace right now and space to process what is happening. Sending love your way!

[@divyav0423]

I hope the baby recovers and gets stronger I’ll definitely keep him in my prayers and hope you feel good both physically and mentally!

[@deannalaw9875]

My heart aches for you, momma. You're doing a great job!

[@kimschwartzbroadhurst9199]

Wow. This story is incredible for so many reasons. Thank you for sharing your story. I will be thinking of you and your family.

[@lionelfleshman6072]

Meredith! Much power to you. You’re awesome and this is a tough time but you will get through it. My daughter was born at 30+2 weeks on January 16th, so I know it’s hard, but your story is amazing. Saving lives, kicking butt in your test, and then bringing your son into the world. It’s hard but I can tell 2021 is going to be your year. Much love and blessings to little Jack.

[@watcherg3936]

I had my baby at 26/4 days . It was stressful but when she got here and being my first ..the most beautiful thing i had ever seen. Truly just showed me true love and compassion as i knew nothing else . I went to see her everyday kangaroo cuddles daily reading and humming as much as i could. Be kind to youself through the journey and don't blame yourself ever. Things happen for a reason . It may have been even destined to help someone else the way you did prior. Remember things also come in waves as a parent. But you will be so tough for it. 1 year 2 months later i would love to have another she's big healthy, very active and so strong. Haha i had a nurse at the time English by background 3 months in my breast milk was going down she said are you getting rest ? Cause sometimes haha #guilty would come in twice. Once during the day and evening with my partner. She said if you need the sleep we're not gonna judge you and your baby is in good hands. Get your rest she needs you strong. So really balance yourself out. I know you can feel zapped but be strong its a wave ..when God puts waves there you've already been given the strength to face it . I whispered daily in nicu to my daughter you are going grow up to be so strong , happy, kind and loved and we would say to her always we love you Mia before we left. At this stage doing that is more than enough #beingthere and carrying the best energy you can to him. You got this ! X many blessings to you guys.

[@annarocha3254]

First: I love the name Meredith. Second: I love the name Jack. Third: I'm so thankful you have each other and other loving family and friends for support. That is something that has always stood out to me in your videos, Jess. You are surrounded by people who love you and genuinely care about your well being. ♥️

[@akdupay1]

All the feels! 😭 You are one strong mama! Our son was in the NICU in 2012, and i can relate to just being overwhelmed & feeling guilty for not wanting to constantly be by baby’s side. It’s A LOT! The beeps, smells, constant commotion....a freaking LOT! Stay strong mama! You’ve got this! ❤️ Praying for you & baby!

[@AnonJess]

Yes! I second this! When I go back and watch my son's videos from the NICU, the beeps are an instant trigger for me. It's like I'm right back in the room. Gah!

[@megansampson5445]

Just so emotional

[@paisleyrae207]

In tears watching her talking about this... I shouldn’t even compare but I know that feeling (not fully) my son had jaundice and there was 2 days that we were in the hospital I wasn’t able to hold him but don’t get me wrong I’m not comparing really I can’t even imagine what she went through not being able to hold him for that long and worrying anything could go wrong with him being so little... her babies are so lucky to have her she is an amazing mama and just an amazing person all around!

[@gabriellagross3674]

Tears… I went through this exact same thing a month ago… getting discharged from the NICU tomorrow… God is good. thank you for sharing ❤️

[@texbecks6682]

Sending all the care and prayers in the world to your sister and your entire family. I'll send my prayers for her baby to grow through this with no more complications and get home to her as quickly and safely as possible.

[@meganbrenner9359]

praying for your baby! thanks for sharing your story, you're so strong to share your story when everything is still so fresh.

[@RC-zm2xm]

So sorry to hear what you guys are going through. Sending you positive thoughts and prayers. Wishing Jack gets to come home soon. xx

[@camilledeklerk7006]

Currently being hospitalized for itchiness . I'm at 37 weeks and when I went in for the gyno visit I explained that I was itchy all over but especially on my belly. Not really itchy so much as irritated like when you wear rough wool. They did the blood tests and sure enough, there's cause for concern. I won't use any medical jargon because it's not my place but it's true, if you feel itchy, not just on your hands and feet, go in and ask for a blood test. Thanks for sharing your story, you're a Championesse.

[@sarah29880]

What was the itchiness?

[@cassiforest9191]

Sisters you are your personal hype girls are the best!!! I’m so sorry you both went through preterm labor but I love that you got to sort of do it together. That will probably being very validating and healing as you both process this life phase.

[@AshleyDR75]

Thank you for sharing! I hope jack keeps growing and can come home as soon as possible

[@michelleeper]

You're so strong Meredith. Jack is so lucky to have a mamma like you! Everything will be okay ❤ Praying for you both.

[@desistoikova5396]

Thank you for sharing! A friend of mine had both of her daughters in week 27 and they were a bit over 2 lbs. They are now very healthy 5 and 7 year old girls. Their NICU doctor recommended no vaccines for them while they were babies and they've been thriving. Hope your boy grows strong and healthy and comes home soon!

[@jshaynes207]

Meredith!! I’m in tears! I’m so happy everything is ok but I am so sorry you had to experience this! You are a rock star!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@zoeloumarcelle]

Meredith, you are great, you are brave and you are enough ❤️ sending you strength and love!

[@rosariocl2835]

You are so sweet, wishing little jack a speedy recovery and a strong heart to momma Meredith 🤍

[@annasementsova87]

I am watching this because I am currently having contractions and 35 weeks pregnant and I am just crying …

[@robbie-leighfaulkner2007]

I’m 30 weeks and lost my mucus plug and had stabbing pains in pelvis but no contractions as of yet thankfully. Taking it easy

[@anekagrant4970]

Had my first son at 24 weeks he spent two months in the nicu and pass away. My second son came at 26 weeks and five days and he went home 3 days after because they were suspecting jaundice so they placed him under a light for three days. He was healthy had no breathing problem, my son is now six. Its just heart breaking seeing these premie and parents going through these struggles.I am so greatful to God for his miracle that my son was healthy and weighing 5 pounds at his gestation. My sister who is now 40 was born at 27 weeks and my mom said she was tiny and could go home three days after birth. Everybody story is quite different i pray for all premie moms. I am now 31 week pregnant and am trusting God that this baby will be healthy like my son, also having a boy again. I am not worried cause i trust God will take me through as he did with my son. All the best to you mommies

[@meganmiller3080]

Crying so hard with you 2. Ugh. Sending so many prayers

[@ThisBraveHeart]

I had sudden onset preeclampsia during the labor of my first child, you’re literally not exaggerating when you both talked about how terrible the magnesium is. I got insanely hot, threw up repeatedly, and I literally felt like I was dying. It was such a terrible experience. I’m currently pregnant with my second and I really hope I won’t have to go through that again. I wish you guys the best!

[@chloechristodoulou7025]

Bless you both. I can’t imagine how you must be feeling. Sending so much love and strength your way ❤️❤️❤️

[@mollypetersen3188]

Thank you for sharing your story, especially when it's so fresh. Please take care of you and get some rest, I hope your little baby is home with you soon ❤️

[@paisleyrae207]

She is soooooo amazing! Of course your sister is this bright beautiful soul... I feel so lame and “fan girly” but you are just so sweet and it’s like dead obvious that she is your sister because she’s the same! Good souls!

[@thatnickguy]

I’m rooting for you. I’m a soon to be first time dad. My wife and I are facing the possibility of preterm c-section. This video was extremely helpful. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@hollyl5702]

That is so rough. Meredith, you are an amazing woman. I am so sorry you are having to go through this. Sending all the love and strength I can via screen. ❤️

[@rinat2214]

You are both such strong women ❤ Praying for you and your babies! God bless

[@tabathaFridayy]

I am blown away by you mommas. So strong. Thank you so much for sharing. Bless both of you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@nourishedmotherhood6381]

Aww, my heart. Praying for you mama and your sweet little baby. May you feel comfort, strength, and peace during this very difficult and emotional time. You are AMAZING and you are a WARRIOR! Now that it's April I'm hoping things are very different for you guys in a positive way.

[@nusska0121]

You are so amazingly strong and brave! Thank you for sharing this here, it means a lot❤️

[@annemariegregory927]

Bless your sister! It’s hard to process giving birth. Praying for her family. 😘

[@la_nouvelle_rose4616]

Im praying for your sister xoxox You make me smile a little bit at the end when you said hope so you are at 40 week , because im at 40.5 i was feeling tired of beeing pregnant but now i Feel very Lucky and i will think about your sister all day , stay strong mama , my step son born at 27.5 week and he is super healty today he gonna have 11 years old this sunday , everything is possible ! I Will pray for you and your little baby . Take care ❣

[@danielleneuhalfen8102]

Your amazing! Hang in there! I pray this is a short time of struggle for you and your family and wish you many years of happiness with your little one

[@AnonJess]

Hi Jess & Meredith! I had my first baby at 26 + 3 last January. It was extremely difficult to endure, but he was perfectly healthy for the 1lb 10oz that he was, and after 83 lonnnnng days (3 weeks of which, we were under Covid lockdown and my husband was barred from coming and seeing us), we got to come home! I have one piece of advice to give. From one scientist to another: please read the book "Preemies- Second Edition: The Essential Guide for Parents of Premature Babies". I absolutely used this book as a crutch to combat fear during our NICU stay. It helped me stay informed about the procedures going on with my son and ultimately, that knowledge helped me stay a hair ahead of my anxieties about him. He is going to be home before you know it, and you are so strong, Mama! You can do this and you will be better for it! You will come out on the other side able to help other mamas. Best of luck to you and Mr. Baby! Lots of love!

[@tvinson39]

🙏🙏🙏 praying for baby to keep doing well and get home as soon as possible

[@jlmatheson9952]

Your sister is a ROCK STAR!! Oh my goodness!

[@freetheturtlesplease]

May God bless all of you and protect baby Jack and his health ❤️

[@philippapay4352]

Good to know that this firm is donating meals when there is so much need in the pandemic. Am going to consider them as a possibility. Thank you for the introduction and shared story.

[@kellyroth7268]

I'm so sorry you went through this, how hard. I would be a balling mess if this happened to me. I'm so happy your son is healthy and home now.

[@BarbyGamble]

This video made me cry so much😭 sending you all my love and strength Meredith, I’m so sorry for what you are going through but I’m sure it won’t be long until you can be qith baby Jack and hold him all day long❤️

[@lexysvlogs]

Sending love and prayers, your prayers are not weak. Also here to say I love your Facebook group, Jessica. It has been helping me a ton and the moms in the group are the best!

[@rachelpierson6957]

I just want to give your sister a hug!! ❤️

[@sadiyaahmed6078]

Thanks for sharing. Hope your baby comes home safe and sound.

[@mcguirenikole]

Wowza, Meredith you’re an amazing woman!! Praying for you and sweet baby Jack 💕💕

[@JBNCATS]

she was in labor just only 31 weeks pregnancy, must be so hard time for her life. Really heartbreaking to hear her story, she is brave mom!

[@Bville2]

She is a superstar oh my god!!! I’m your biggest fan!

[@ryanm7249]

Praying for you and Jack.

[@lmicky5361]

Aw I was Crying with you- watching this - I’m 24 wks with a rainbow baby - I’m always worried about pre term labour! Babies are so precious! Sending lots of love and prayers xxx

[@itskerenrose]

Such an incredible video. Thank you both for sharing. Your relationship makes me want to hug my sister. 💝

[@anikotakacs1228]

Lots of love to the whole family!

[@msozzaric2638]

Im 30 weeks and my baby will have to be born pre mature, its my first one and i cried the whole time listening to you. I think i needed to let it out but i was holding on too tight. Stay strong 🧡

[@marc7585]

You too love, please know of my prayers for you and your little one, I know words and prayers can feel oh so empty when your on the receiving end but please know you are seen and you are so very loved. Sending a little hope from my corner of the internet 💕

[@msozzaric2638]

Mar C thank you! You have no idea how much this means to me 🙏🏻🌺

[@Camillarinify]

You are such an incredible woman. May he recover and grow strong ❤️

[@sarahvma]

Thank you for doing this. I had a 33+1 spontaneous rupture of membranes and had my baby at 33+3. It was really scary but she's doing great now. Pre-term labor sucks for all kinds of reasons, but it's nice to hear more people talking about it.

[@anso1236]

WOW! Congratulations on saving a life, passing the test and having a baby!❤️✨

[@nicoleminer9436]

jess and meredith, this feels like too much for a youtube comment but i don’t have social media so here goes... i watched this soon after you posted and have been thinking about what to say since then. but there are no words, are there? no good or perfect or helpful words besides, perhaps, this - God sees you and baby jack, He especially knows him so well. and He will be with you all through this journey, just as He was with baby jules and with His people from the first day. i am sorry this is happening to you. my son’s story has been anything except what i expected and hoped and prayed for, but we keep going, one day at a time. i am also in denver and am guessing jack’s at children’s (if i’m wrong please stop me!); we spend a lot of our time there with our babe and live just down the road. if you need a meal or a coffee, i would love to provide it. i’m a stranger to you, but i’m also a mama, a nurse, a sister in Jesus and feel compelled to say and offer these things. you are not alone.

[@spaolillo2363]

Wow what a story !!! Well done ! You’re invincible

[@tammypham1024]

Love you both. God bless Meredith and Jessica.

[@maggiefry900]

Praying for baby jack and your whole family! 💕

[@shakaanita]

Wishing your sister and little health and safety!

[@DianaM77]

Thank you for sharing this overwhelming and hard yet amazing journey! God is with you every step of the way, and He will bring you through it!! Sending lots of love, strength and support ❤️

[@emilywade3302]

You’re so strong - sending you all so much love 💕

[@foxyred1015]

I’ve been there before and I know exactly how it feels! Sending you love and hugs!

[@KC-dn2gw]

youre a superstar Meredith. and congrats on beautiful baby Jack. bless him and may the lord grant him, you and your family strength. xo good bless. from kerry in australia x