Today will forever be one of the best days of our lives. It was the moment we prayed for. When I woke up this morning and was told Wynonna could go home, I couldn’t believe my ears. As exciting as today was, it’s bittersweet in many ways. We left behind the room that her life was saved in and all the providers who did the saving. Happy tears were shed all around. And though it was great to leave and start our next chapter, I will never take for granted the love and relationships we built along the way. The phenomenal staff at Sanford children’s NICU deserve their own post soon, so for tonight I’ll just share my message to Wynonna. 

My Dearest Wynonna Grace,

As I write this letter to you, my heart swells with emotions that are difficult to express in words. You, my precious girl, have been through so much in your short time on this earth, and yet your resilience and strength continue to astound me every day.

From the moment you were born, you faced challenges that no one should ever have to endure, especially not a tiny, fragile soul like yours. Against all odds, you have been a beacon of hope, a source of immeasurable faith, and a constant reminder of the miracles that grace our world. Your journey has been nothing short of miraculous, defying every expectation that tried to confine you.

The days and nights spent in the NICU were some of the longest and most difficult of my life. Each beep of the monitors, each hushed conversation between doctors, and each moment of uncertainty felt like an eternity. But through it all, you fought with a determination that inspired everyone around you. 

When your eyes finally opened and searched for comfort in the midst of chaos, when your tiny fingers first grasped mine, and when you took your first breath of air on your own – are moments etched into my memory forever. And when you finally came home, it felt like the sun had emerged after the darkest of storms.

One day I will tell you about the doctors and nurses that loved you like their own. How they worked relentlessly to keep you alive, and how you proved to them the mighty success of their efforts. I will tell you about the strangers that prayed ceaselessly. About the medicine man and pastor that did everything they knew to help heal you. Above all, I will tell you how the power of love, faith, and hope makes anything possible. 

My darling, you are a miracle in every sense of the word. Your strength, your resilience, and your sheer will to survive are a testament to the incredible person you are destined to become. You have already touched so many lives with your presence, and I know that you will continue to do so in ways I can't even imagine.

As you grow older, I want you to always remember how loved you are. You are not just my daughter; you are my heart, my soul, my reason for being. I will always be here to support you, to encourage you, and to cheer you on every step of the way.

No matter what challenges life may throw your way, always remember that you are a fighter. You have already overcome the greatest of odds, and there is nothing in this world that you cannot conquer. Where ever your life takes you, I hope you never forget how powerful you are. 

I love you more than words can say, and I will thank God for every moment we share together.

With all my love,

Mama