Becoming a parent is challenging enough. But when your baby arrives prematurely or with health challenges, it is even more overwhelming. Families in St. Boniface Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) face isolation, emotional overwhelm, and uncertainty. Extra support is crucial for these families.
That’s where Delka Roberts, Parent Partner Coordinator with St. B’s NICU, comes in.
The Parent Partner Program, funded by Foundation donors, provides much-needed support through a unique peer connection model. In the long-term, Roberts aims to pair current NICU families with ‘veteran’ families – called parent partners – who have been through the NICU experience before and understand the challenging journey. Right now, she has parent partners volunteer at social events and parent groups. In addition to connecting families, she offers reassurance, comfort, and a listening ear to parents of tiny, fragile babies.
The Program existed before the COVID-19 pandemic but was paused during restrictions on visitors and volunteering.
“If nothing else, the pandemic really pointed out how isolating things can be, especially for a new parent who’s struggling,” said Roberts. “I’m there to remind them that their baby is here, it’s a good day today, and they’re going to get through this.”
Many NICU families are from northern, rural, or remote areas, separated from their loved ones and often staying in hotels. Having small craft events in the unit or support groups can provide a sense of community and an emotional break from isolation.
For Roberts, this role is personal. She offers support to parents from a place of understanding, as a former NICU parent herself. Fourteen years ago, her daughter, Tabitha, was born at St. B. Weighing only one pound and two ounces at birth, she needed extra care. Roberts remembers the fear and uncertainty, but also the incredible support from NICU staff, especially nurses, who became her confidants and cheerleaders.
She’s not sure how she would have made it through some of the especially hard days without their conversations and comfort – making it clear that extra support is crucial to NICU parents.
“I remember our first skin-to-skin cuddle – my first time holding her – was on Valentine’s Day,” recalled Roberts. “What a gift! I remember we just had regular office chairs in the room at the time, and I sat there happily for hours, just cherishing that.”
From then on, Tabitha got stronger, was able to breathe on her own, and the days got easier.
When the Parent Partner Program was recruiting for the Coordinator position, Roberts knew she wanted to give back in a meaningful way. “As NICU families, we’re here for so much time, but we’re kind of invisible,” she said. “When your baby is sick, you gain superpowers. But having someone beside you who has been through it makes that extra difference.”
Through shared experiences, meaningful connection, and small moments of community, St. Boniface Hospital’s NICU is providing holistic care to families. Thanks to Delka Roberts and the team of dedicated parent volunteers, more families can know they’re not alone.