Project Sweet Peas Blog

January 2012 Sweet Pea Spotlight: Isabella Virginia

2012-01-31T10:02:00.008-06:00

January 2012 Sweet Pea Spotlight: Isabella Virginia

Isabella Virginia was born at 33 weeks due to her Mommy having complete placenta previa. She was born on November 24, 2009 weighing in at an amazing 5lbs 2oz and 19.5 inches at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh via emergency c-section. Bella did great in the NICU at first with no huge complications. But then one day we walked into the NICU to see the DR and others standing around her incubator. Bella had developed NEC.

I have never been more scared or felt more sick than I did at that exact second. After that we had weeks of x-rays, prayers, tears, and more prayers. Everyday was a fresh new wave of fear and asking if the xrays showed any improvement. Bella had really small veins, and they had a very hard time giving her IVs. She needed one in her head as a last resort......worst image I have ever seen.

Due to it eventually leaking she was transferred to Children's Hospital. The IV team got an IV in her within minutes with no problems. Amazing people. Then we learned she needed a blood transfusion asap. I have never felt so helpless in my life. Here was my tiny miracle and all I could do is stand there and pray.

After many many visits to the hospital and tons of guilt when we left the hospital (we have a 5 yr old son at home) the day came when they said we can resume feeds!!! It was medical NEC and she did not need surgery. I have never been so happy in my life! Scared too because it could happen again. Feeding was frustrating because she had to learn how to do it. By this time it was December 2009. The hospital brought in PT to help her learn to eat. She was slowly getting it, but not eating enough. She would spit up a lot too.

Her big brother finally got to meet her on Christmas Day. There are no words to describe that moment.....it was one of the best moments of my life. She just looked up at her brother in awe....and they have had a special bond ever since that day.

Once Bella was doing well in every aspect except feeding they decided to move her to the Children's Home and Lemieux Family Center. That place is so wonderful, it was like heaven for us. The nurses are angels. They took so much time to work with Bella on feeding. A week...ONE WEEK....after arriving there our baby girl came home!! January 4, 2010!!!

Isabella spent a total of 6 weeks in the NICU. I know there are lots of babies who spend a lot longer and who have/had more complications then Bella, and I pray for those babies everyday. Bella was a rainbow baby....we had a miscarriage before we had her. That is what makes her so much more special :). She came into this world a fighter and she still is....she is so spunky and does things her own way. She is now 2 years old, 30lbs and perfect! I thank God everyday for how lucky we were with our daughter. I thank him for both of our children. I hope you enjoyed reading Bella's story.

We would like to thank all of the families that submitted their children's stories. Please know that each of your children are so inspiring and are the reason for what we do. We are honored that you chose to share them with us. If your story was not highlighted this month we encourage you to resubmit next month

Project Sweet Peas in 2011

2012-01-11T13:12:00.003-06:00

Does the number 2,235 put a smile on your face? It does ours… Project Sweet Peas had the opportunity to deliver 2,235 packages last year to families in the NICU and to parents grieving the loss of an infant. Project leaders across the United States and Canada work hard to provide comfort to these families and couldn’t do so without the help of their communities. Project Sweet Peas is a non-profit organization that relies on fundraisers and donations to gather the needed items to support the individual projects. That’s over 22,000 items used in 2011.

On top of the care packages that go to local hospitals, many project leaders provide holiday related items. This Christmas season 18 santa hats, 150 holiday bears, 100 eye masks, 204 stockings, 70+ ornaments, blankets, books and outfits were delivered to help ease the frustration of being in the NICU at Christmas. Bringing a bit of happiness to an otherwise sad situation is what brings satisfaction to the leaders of Project Sweet Peas.

The delivers from this year brings our total deliveries to 3,716. We would love to double that this year and with your help we could. You can help make a difference by donating items to local projects. Many Project Leaders are looking for people who can help with the personal touches, like sewing or knitting as well as small craft projects. Maybe you aren’t a crafty person but know how to shop the sales, we can use your skills too. There are several items that go into our care packages and every little bit helps.

We currently have projects located in Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Washington, and Wisconsin. We also have a project located in Ontario, Canada. You can visit our site www.projectsweetpeas.com to make a donation to any of these local projects or to donate to the general fund. “Unless someone like you cares a whole lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss.

Shannon's Star Survival Bracelet Sale

2012-01-03T08:01:00.009-06:00

Shannon’s Star Survival Bracelet Sale

Sweet Pea Survival Bracelets are specially made for anyone that has survived the intensive care unit or the loss a child.

They say that a stay in the ICU is like a war zone, with the alarms, cries, sickness and death. If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, Friend that seen or been through the hardship of having a child endure a NICU/PICU stay in the hospital then you are a survivor.

The loss of a child upsets the natural order of life, the most inconsolable loss. The first year(s) after a child dies, family doesn’t think they can go on; life is unfair, and all is a whirlwind of emotions. Somehow, in the thick of the grief, they manage to live day to day and adjust to the “new normal”. You are a survivor.

Show the world, inspire them; show them you know a hero and you are a survivor.

Sweet Pea Bracelets come on 3 varieties:

Sweet Pea Boy Bracelet: Green, Yellow with Blue center cord
Sweet Pea Girl: Green, Yellow with Pink center cord
Sweet Pea: Green and Yellow

All Bracelets are made from durable paracord (originally made to be used in an emergency for military, police and fire personnel). All bracelets are 7 ½ to 8” long. Bracelets can be worn in water (makes bracelet form better to your wrist).

Bracelets are $10

$15 for 2

Shipping Included

Thank you to Savage Survival Bracelets.

Kit's Muse Pounds for Preemies

2012-01-02T22:18:00.001-06:00

Kit's Muse Pounds for Preemies

Help raise funds to support NICU and loss families while you lose weight!! Sign up for Pounds for Preemies! Project Kit's Muse a part of Project Sweet Peas is offering a contest to see who can stick to those goals and lose the most weight. Sign up is only 20.00 and goes to supporting NICU and loss familes. There is a facebook group to keep you motivated and learn what is working well for others. The winner will receive half the pot in sign up fees so be sure to share this one with your friends and family. The more people that sign up the bigger the pot! Message Kits Muse on Facebook for more info or e-mail poundsforpreemies@gmail. com to get more info!

December 2011 Sweet Pea Spotlight

2011-12-26T19:26:00.002-06:00

Our family story is one that I'm sure many parents share. We are celebrating our 3rd Christmas with our previously premature twins. I say previous because I hope our story gives a small sense of comfort to parents experiencing the emotional journey of having a baby born premature.

Our twins Lexi and Tyson were born on December 11, 2009. I was 29 weeks pregnant when they arrived. My delivery was chaos. Lexi was born first, before my doctor was even at the hospital. I remember asking the nurse after Lexi was born, "ok, I can have my epidural now, right"? The nurse replied, sorry honey it's to late for that, just do your breathing... I remember clearly my response was "but I haven't taken the birthing class yet, it's next week!"

So an hour and 45 minutes later my son Tyson was born. They were both quickly rushed away by the neonatologist. I never got the chance to see and definitely not hold them like I had imaged my birth would be like. 3 hours later I finally got to get my first look at my beautiful babies. Lexi weighed in at 3lbs 3ozs and Tyson 3lbs 8ozs. I instantly reached out to touch them, rub their feet, stroke their hair... but was told I was not allowed to. I could for a brief minute rest my hand on their chest. It was so hard. I had a hard time not blaming myself. Feeling like if I had done something differently this would not have happened. The first two weeks were the hardest. My babies for the most part were healthy but had all the common preemie issues. Apnea, heart murmurs, PDA, etc.

On Christmas eve Lexi developed a serious staff infection and required a blood and transfusion. It was one of the many scary things to happen to us during our 41 days in the NICU. On Christmas one of the nurses asked me if I had ever held by babies together at the same time. No, I replied... it wasn't allowed yet. She looked at me, smiled, and then slowly closed the curtain and gently handed me in my right arm my little Lexi and in my left Tyson. It was best Christmas gift anyone will ever give me!

During our time in the NICU we met so many wonderful and caring people. They made us feel like we were never alone on this journey and that the end, would be a happy one.

One of the most important things I learned was, even though these little babies look so fragile, they are the most resilient creatures. They will grow faster than you can ever imagine. And then someday, like me, with my crazy two year olds, you will look back and find it hard to believe your babies were ever that small.

I don't even think of my babies as preemies anymore. And if you didn't know us when they were born you would never know. I just want to say to all the parents spending this Holiday Season in the NICU, just know a day will come that you will look back on these memories and feel like you read them in a book or some great story. You forged through these challenging times. And you can't image your babies first days, weeks and months happening any other way.

God bless all the families in a NICU!

Home for the Holidays

2011-12-16T19:01:00.008-06:00

Home for the Holidays
By Lisa Knigge Rondeau

You’ve survived the NICU and are now home with your baby. You’ve finally settled into a routine with your preemie and the rest of your family (hopefully). Just when things seem to be sailing along, here come the holidays to throw a wrench in your plans!

Now don’t get me wrong, I’m no Scrooge. I happen to love the holidays and everything they represent—time with friends and family and all we hold dear. A time to reflect on what is truly important in our lives, which is even more meaningful now that you have experienced the life-altering journey of a premature baby. And yet, that first (or second, or third) holiday home with your preemie can be incredibly stressful! It’s a Catch-22—everyone wants to see your baby, which is great, but then everyone wants to see your baby, which is exhausting, impractical, and could be dangerous depending on the germ factor where you live. It’s hard to set boundaries with those we love, but it is essential to do for the sanity and safety of everyone.

The first step to figuring this out is to sit down and establish what is truly essential for this holiday, knowing that some things will have to go. Only you and your immediate family can make these decisions and it will take some soul searching. But try to figure out exactly how you want this holiday to look and feel. Is it essential that you see your parents and siblings? Grandma and Grandpa and other extended family? Friends traveling from out of town? Remember, your preemie baby isn’t going to remember these visits—you will. So figure out what you can live with and what you can do without for the time being. If you really can’t narrow down your list, it might be helpful to ask your pediatrician for suggestions. He or she may feel strongly that your little one be exposed to very few people to minimize the risk of infection—if so, your decision is made for you and this can help you break the news to Aunt Shirley why you are not bringing everyone out caroling this year.

Once you know who you must see, figure out the how and when of getting that accomplished. Let’s face it, the holidays were probably already stressful before you had your preemie—lots of rushing from place to place—perhaps with an older (and possibly very cranky) sibling too. Ever dream of not doing all that? Of running away to a deserted island? Well now is your chance! While maybe the island part won’t work out, now is the perfect time to start setting some limits as to what you can accomplish in one day. December hath 31 days folks—use them. Maybe a get together could be moved to the weekend before the actual holiday to free up your schedule. Or perhaps a daytime New Year’s celebration is in order. Try to plan events so you can actually enjoy them—think about nap times and feeding times and travel times and take all of it into consideration first. Remind yourself, and family members if needed, that while everyone wants to see you and that little miracle, absolutely NO ONE wants to see that little miracle (and his or her parents!) having an hour long meltdown due to exhaustion.

Last but not least, oce the holidays arrive, put a smile on your face and enjoy them. You will never get this time back, so be merry whenever you can. Be thankful for all you have and amazed at everything you have endured and survived. Remember when it seemed like you would NEVER leave the NICU? Well, you did. Hooray! And December will end too, leaving you with tons of great memories, and about 11 months to start thinking about the next one.

Prenatal Diagnosis & Preparing for the birth and/or NICU experience

2011-12-09T09:59:00.004-06:00

Prenatal Diagnosis & Preparing for the birth and/or NICU experience

By Melissa Dawn Roy (Project Leader for Nimkee Blessings)

‘Welcoming’ a new baby. Is there anything more exciting? Will it be a boy or a girl? What shall we name him/her?

These are but a few of the anticipatory thoughts that often go swirling about in your head as those tiny, microscopic cells are rapidly multiplying in your womb.

It’s an incredible discovery for most. We automatically skip ahead 9 months and fantasize about that precise moment when our little one is delivered safely, into our waiting arms. Oh joy, oh bliss!

Everything is supposed to be perfect---but sometimes something goes wrong.

I will never forget how excited that I was while awaiting that first ultrasound appointment. I was going to get a chance to see my baby for the first time! I couldn’t wait to see the face, arms and legs, fingers and toes. What a miracle about to be unveiled!

With the dawning of new technological advances in medicine, comes a whole other wealth of knowledge at our fingertips. We hope for the best test results, but some of us have to prepare for other pregnancy and delivery options instead, or for baby’s treatment plans following birth.

Some of the new prenatal tests can be performed relatively early in the first trimester, and are relatively non-invasive. These procedures would include testing the mother’s blood for specific fetal cells which may reveal a possible complication or defect in the fetus.

Another form of non-invasive testing is in the form of ultrasound to visually conduct measurements and dates, as well as the development of the fetus.

Invasive testing includes Chorionic Villus Testing, and Amniocentesis, both of which require the insertion of needles/catheters to collect a sample of fetal tissue cells. These cells then undergo various tests to determine the health of the developing fetus.

I remember the day that I received the test results of the maternal serum blood testing which I opted for. I figured it would be “one last thing to worry about”. The results revealed that there was a 1:8 chance of my unborn child having Trisomy 18. My midwife explained to me what that was, and scheduled an appointment for me to see a genetic counsellor a couple of days later.

The genetic counsellor explained to me what these test results ‘may’ mean, and presented me with some options. I decided to have an amniocentesis performed for a more accurate diagnosis before planning my next decisions.

A few weeks later I received the results of the karyotype testing which was performed on the collected fetal cells during the amniocentesis. I found out that I was carrying a boy, and he had an extra chromosome number 13 in every cell tested in the sample. He was going to be born with Full Trisomy 13, also known as Patau Syndrome.

I was devastated, to say the least. After succumbing to a complete meltdown, I gathered my wits about me and prepared for the journey that lay ahead for my unborn son and I.

How does one prepare for the possibility of fetal demise in the womb, or shortly following birth? What if your baby requires some extra care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), or requires surgery? It isn’t easy, but we’re here to assist you in this, should you or someone you know require some support of this kind.

Please consider the following suggestions:

Request to speak with a geneticist, or genetic counsellor regarding any type of chromosomal or g genetic condition which may have been detected.
Request to see a neonatologist or surgeon, or other specialist per your child’s needs, should you find out that your baby may require specific treatment or surgery following birth.
Be sure to write down any questions you may have prior to your first visit to your prenatal specialist, which may also be known as a perinatologist, and/or neonatologist (fetal specialist) should one be required during or following birth.
Request information and research your baby’s condition so that you may make your own educated decisions when the time comes to do so. You will become your child’s greatest advocate and supporter. Education does help to erase the fears of the unknown future.
Reach out to a support group, or therapist in your area.
Consider joining an online support group if you feel comfortable doing so. I did, and I can say without a doubt that it has helped me immensely along this very scary and emotional rollercoaster ride of grief and healing. It is a personal choice, and may not be for everyone, and remember that they are there to provide some comfort or support along the way, but are not medical professionals. If you feel that you require some extra assistance, please reach out to your physician so that you may be guided in the proper direction. Your emotional needs are very important during this very delicate time for you and your unborn child.
Request a tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit that your child may be seen at. Speak with the Social Workers in the department to help alleviate any fears or concerns which may arise.
Reach out to your family, friends, and social systems and inform them of your situation. You may be very surprised by the outpouring of love and support that you and your family will receive along the way.
Be gentle with yourself, and your partner.
Seek out resources to help prepare other siblings for the impending birth.

Most of all, remember to try and take time to enjoy your pregnancy. I know it’s easier said than done, but it can be done. Having found out the sex of my unborn son, I was able to name him. I became very protective of this little guy, and found myself really cherishing the moments we spent together while he was still tucked safely away inside my womb. I would rub him, rock him, and tell him stories about our daily adventures.

One of the most therapeutic things I did to help get us through, was to start writing a blog---(online journal)---open for everyone to read. It was a great way to get my emotions out of me and share our journey with others, without having to look anyone in the eyes and speak the words out loud.

This pregnancy can still be a beautiful time if you learn to embrace it, and celebrate each day together.

Please know that you are not alone in this journey, and that many others like us have been where you are. Project Sweet Peas is here to assist you and your family regardless of your situation or outcome. Please feel free to check out our Website and Resource Page for more information and support links.

(http://projectsweetpeas.com/Resources.aspx)

~Project Sweet Peas: Providing comfort to families with children in the intensive care units and to those who have experienced pregnancy and infant loss~

Sweet Pea Spotlight November 2011: Kayden and Karson

2011-11-28T09:26:00.034-06:00

Sweet Pea Spotlight November 2011: Kayden & Karson

In honor of Prematurity Awareness Month we chose a special preemie duo as our November Sweet Pea Spotlight, Kayden and Karson. These boys are current NICU sweet peas. We ask that you keep Kayden, Karson, and their family in your hearts as they continue their fight in the NICU.

Kayden and Karson's Story

I was having very severe 5-6 minute contractions at 1:00 AM on November 4th. So I rushed to the hospital (a 45 minute drive). I waited there until 4 AM just for them to send me home saying I was dehydrated. Once I returned home I tried everything I could to make my contractions stop until I came to realize my water had broken. At 26 weeks and 6 days I didn't know what to think. Upon returning to the hospital, I was rushed to the OR at 10 cm dilated. At 10:49 Kayden was born weighing 2 pounds 3 ounces. Five minutes later my son Karson was born weighing 2 pounds 7 ounces. They will be three weeks this Friday. Karson has already hit the 3 pound mar. Kayden is shortly behind weighing 2lbs 12oz. They are for the most part breathing on their own except for some pressure being used to keep their lungs from sticking. Their feedings are increased every day. They have told us to expect them to come home around February. All I am waiting for is the day they can be in the same open crib together.

MJ's Memories Teddy Bear Drive

2011-11-23T12:16:00.006-06:00

MJ's Memories will be donating Teddy Bears to families spending their holidays in the NICU again this year! Their goal is to provide every family in the NICU at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, KS and Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO with a Teddy Bear on Christmas Day. To reach this goal they will need 100 Teddy Bear's. While your out doing your holiday shopping, please consider picking up a Teddy Bear or two to give a little comfort to families who aren't able to be at home this year. Contact Megan Skaggs, MJ's Memories Project Leader, for more details or to arrange to donate any Teddy Bears. Thank you in advance for your help!

Celebrating 3,000 Care Packages

2011-11-22T16:22:00.006-06:00

Several years ago Project Sweet Peas began with the efforts of three women. Inspired by their experiences they decided to start filling bags with items that they wished they had or needed during their stay in the hospital. Since then Project Sweet Peas has grown into a nationwide network of projects.

Today we celebrate 3,000 care packages. On October 28th project Avi's Embrace donated our 3,000th care package. That's 3,000 families supported by our organization. And that number has continued to grow.

We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to all of you. To our project leaders, to our volunteers, and to anyone who has contributed to our organization in some way. Without you, Project Sweet Peas would not be the success that it is.

We are so excited to see what the future holds.

Featured article: A Mother's Guilt

2011-11-18T21:38:00.003-06:00

A Mother’s Guilt

Trying again after the loss of an infant

By Shannon M. Mason

The loss of an infant, at any stage, is a heart wrenching situation. Miscarriage occurs in 15 percent of all clinically recognized pregnancies and 3 to 4 percent of all reproductive age couples have recurrent losses. (Cohen, J. 2005) These statistics do not make the pain of a loss any easier on the parents who are going through the experience. Nor does it make the decision to try again any less guilt ridden.

The desire to have a child is often so strong that once a woman has conceived she begins to connect with the life growing inside her. When that life no longer exists there is a painful void. Often that void is filled with the desire to try again but it is not without worry, stress and even guilty thoughts. A mother’s love is so strong that she can continue to connect with the life that was once inside her own body and replacing that life with another is a decision riddled with questions.

Trying again can be confusing and scary. Many questions may be going through your mind. Here are some facts concerning loss:

Having one miscarriage does not increase your risk of having another.
Having losses during your second trimester may indicate cervical incompetency and should be tested.
Once you see a heartbeat over 100 beats per minute your risk of miscarriage is less than 10%.
Most miscarriages are due to a chromosomal anomaly and if this is your first, then the chance of having a healthy baby in a subsequent pregnancy is excellent.
Most all miscarriages happen because of a problem with the fetus, not due to something the mother may or may not have done.
Women who try again soon after a loss may be more successful than those who delay.

The time for a couple to try again is a personal decision. Not only does the body need time to heal, so does the mind. Another pregnancy will not replace the previous loss and it becomes difficult to know where you are in the role of parenthood. You may find it hard to say that you are a parent since you do not have a living child. In actuality, you are the most precious of parents as your love now spans across the heavens to reach your little one.

When the time is right you will find yourself expecting another child. This new pregnancy will be bittersweet. You may find that others will ask if this subsequent pregnancy will be your first child. Feelings of guilt may accompany your answer. Technically, this is not your first child but how do you explain? How strong is your ability to talk about your loss? If you are able, you can mention that this is not your first pregnancy and give a brief explanation that you have another child who did not make it to birth or passed away shortly after. For some, this explanation is much more difficult. When I am asked this question I reply that “we have seven angels watching over us.” This response was not always easy and to this day still brings feelings of grief when spoken.

With this new life growing inside, it is perfectly acceptable to be happy. Staying positive is sometimes difficult as your thoughts may drift to your other child(ren) but that is normal. Take each day one step at a time and celebrate the milestones of your pregnancy. Understand that there is no right or wrong way to handle a subsequent pregnancy. Your decision to try again is because of the vast amount of love you have for your family and that love is large enough to encompass all of your children, without a need for guilt.

Sweet Pea Spotlight

2011-11-15T07:59:00.002-06:00

We will be starting our newest program – the Sweet Pea Spotlight. The Sweet Pea Spotlight will feature an ICU child (0-18yrs) and may be an angel, fighting in the ICU currently or thriving at home. Submissions will be open for one week each month, and which time you can submit your child’s story along with two photos to spotlight@projectsweetpeas.com. The Sweet Pea will be chosen and announced the last week of each month. After the Sweet Pea is chosen, parents will need to resubmit their story for the following month. Please, do not submit other parent’s children for the Spotlight.

In honor of Prematurity Awareness Month, we will be choosing a special preemie as our Sweet Pea Spotlight. Submissions start today and run until November 25^th. Submit your preemie’s story along with two photos to us at spotlight@projectsweetpeas.com. Our Sweet Pea will be announced on November 28^th and featured on our blog and Facebook page.

Good luck!

How to Advocate for your Child While in the NICU

2011-11-04T19:14:00.002-05:00

How to Advocate for your Child While in the NICU

By Lisa Knigge Rondeau

Having a baby in the hospital is one of the most stressful events for so many reasons—in many cases, it is unexpected, which leaves parents unprepared and overwhelmed by the hospital setting; Mom is still recovering from the baby’s delivery and possibly emergency surgery herself, leaving her in pain and low on energy; and of course, the worry about your baby—the medical terms, diagnoses, tests, procedures—it is all too much to take in. With so many emotions flowing through your head, it can be especially hard to effectively manage your child’s care and be an advocate for them.

Wanting to be an advocate for your child and actually being one are two different things. If your anything like me, you might find yourself vacillating between two extremes as you try to handle your NICU stay—keeping your feelings of frustration, fear, and anger bottled up inside, choosing to cry when you are in the comfort of your own home; or taking your feelings out on those that are closest to you—your spouse, partner, friend, or parent. While those options are bound to happen to even the best of us, they don’t really help in the long run. They don’t offer any long term solutions for dealing with the new world you find yourself in.

Most people that find themselves with a child in the NICU don’t have a medical degree, and no matter what your background, all the new medical talk can make even the most at ease parent feel unprepared and unknowledgeable. Doctors and staff members seem to talk so fast as they give you the updates: “Three brady alarms today, trying to increase feeds to 15cc’s, testing billirubin levels and a head ultrasound later. Any questions?” If this is your first time (or tenth, or hundredth, it really doesn’t matter) hearing some of these terms, you will have LOTS of questions, and it can be difficult just to know where to start.

Here are some tips to help you manage the information and advocate for your child:

1. 1. 1. Keep notes in a dedicated notebook

When I arrived in the NICU, I had nothing with me besides my purse. My first days of notes were on the back of a grocery receipt until my husband could go get me a notebook. In an emergency—any scrap paper will do, but try to keep all your notes in one notebook that is just for hospital information. Start a new page with the date, and take all your notes there. Try to focus on getting the important information down—spelling and penmanship doesn’t count now—you can fix those items later if needed. Long names of diseases or disorders can be looked up later for more information by you or often times in the hospital’s resource center if one is available.

2. 2. 2. Say what you feel

If you are having a conversation with a doctor, nurse or other staff person, and you are feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or upset, start by saying just that. It allows everyone to know where they stand in the conversation and helps the staff members meet you where you are at. If they think you are handling everything just perfectly, they might not take the extra time to slow down and make sure you understand everything. So go ahead and start by saying “I’m feeling very overwhelmed right now.” Then clearly state why you are feeling that way: “I was here all night last night due to my daughter’s surgery, and now she might need another one. I don’t understand why that is.” You don’t have to go on and on if you don’t want to, but telling everyone exactly what you are feeling and why allows them to direct their answers to those feelings, and not whatever they might think you need.

3. 3. 3. Speak their language

Let’s face it—everyone communicates differently. As a NICU parent, your daily emotions and well-being revolve around your child and how he or she is doing. But this isn’t true of doctors and nurses who care for multiple babies each day, no matter how hard they are working to get your (and every baby) well. So in a sense, parents are speaking a different language than staff members. Whenever you can, speak their language to help get direct answers. For example, one of my favorite phrases to use with my girls’ doctors was “What is the criteria for ______”? After several days of my asking the doctor when I could hold my daughter, only to be given answers that were unfulfilling to me, like “when her arterial line comes out,” I had to speak a different language. When the doctor would give me a condition like that, I would then respond, “and what’s the criteria for that?” and allow them to answer, which gave me more specific and manageable information to work with. I knew then what specific steps had to be done to get me where I wanted to be.

4. 4. 4. They work for ME

After many long days and nights in the NICU, I started to take the attitude that the doctors and staff there worked for me, and would need to start behaving accordingly! No, I didn’t get a bullhorn and yell or anything crazy like that, it was just something that I silently repeated in my head to help get me in the right frame of mind. Too often, I felt powerless in the NICU—the fact that I was teacher meant nothing here—my education proved totally inadequate. It was so easy to feel that everyone around me was smarter than me, knew more than me about my babies, and I just had to listen to what they said and nod along nicely. But that of course is not true. So I started to see them as employees that I had the right and obligation to question if something wasn’t going well. I would remind myself that I knew my babies just as well as they did, (if not better!) and that even though I didn’t go to medical school, I can still understand if given the right explanation.

5. 5. 5. Ask to speak to the charge nurse

Did you know there is a charge nurse on each shift in the NICU—a nurse, whose job, in addition to caring for babies, is to oversee NICU issues and address concerns? I didn’t know about this until about one month into my stay. Whenever you are concerned with something regarding the care of your baby, and if that concern is not adequately addressed, ask to speak to the charge nurse. This can be easier than it seems because most of us are and want to be nice, we want everyone to like us and we don’t want to seem difficult and get labeled as “those parents.”

But even if the worst case scenario came true, and everyone thought you were a big meanie for talking to the charge nurse, wouldn’t that still be worth it for your child? Isn’t the risk of having someone—someone who will only be in your life for a short time—not like you a small sacrifice for the care of your child? Of course it is. So speak up when you need to.

Above all, trust yourself. If something doesn’t feel right, say so. If you have a question, even a “dumb” or “quick” one, ask it. Talking the extra effort to make sure you understand so you can be the best advocate for your child is worth it.

Kit's Muse Holiday Card Sale

2011-11-04T19:03:00.001-05:00

Kit's Muse has some great holiday cards for you to share with your friends and family this season! All cards are hand designed just for Kit's Muse and 100% of the proceeds go to the charity. There is no better way to spread love this season than helping NICU families while showing others how much you care.

We are now taking orders and will do so till December 9th! You will receive 6 cards and envelopes for only $6.50. You may pick a mixed box containing one of each design or you may choose one design to be printed on all 6 of your cards. They will be processed in the order they are received and shipping will start the first week of December. You will have them in plenty of time to send off and spread cheer.

Please visit Kit's Muse at www.kitsmuse.com for more information.

Kit's Muse Silly Hat Auction

2011-11-01T20:51:00.015-05:00

Kit's Muse will be having a silly on-line hat auction Nov. 18-20!!! Now is the time to get that cute one of a kind silly hat for you newest family member or the kid that's still inside of you. All items for auction can be found at www.kitsmuse.com on the 'events' page. Starting bid for all items is $10.00 and this includes shipping. 100% of all proceeds go right to the charity so keep those ears warm while warming the hearts of NICU families at the same time!

October 15th: Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day

2011-10-31T13:41:00.011-05:00

Project Sweet Peas

Candlelight Vigil

Every year on October 15^th millions of candles are lit at 7PM across the world. Each flame is representative of the life of a baby lost. This year our Project Sweet Peas’ team made it our mission to honor each life with a candlelight vigil. With the involvement of 11 of our Project Leaders we made this a reality. At 7 PM each and every one of the 477 names that were submitted burned brightly across the continent.

Nimkee Blessings: Melissa Dawn Roy. Ontario, CA

Pirate Power: Leila Manning and Stephanie Brown. San Jose, CA

Donny's Shining Light: Theresa Wellman. IL

Kit's Muse: Jennifer Edwards. Excelsior Springs, MI

Lauren and Madeline's Gift: Lisa Knigge. Glendale, WI

Avi's Embrace: Sarah King. Lafayette, IN

Shannon's Star: Kate Crawford. Belle Vernon, PA

Gabriel's Gift: Corin Nava. East Haven, CT

Mason's Monarchs: Shannon Mason. Jacksonville, FL

Owen's Miracle: Kathleen Hill. Sonora, CA

We would like to thank you all for sharing your babies with us.

It was truly an honor to remember them.

Project Sweet Peas

October Monthly Article

In acknowledgement of October 15^th, project leader, Melissa Dawn Roy shares reflections on her own journey in coping with the loss of her son and the meaning of this very special day.

“Your baby has Trisomy 13. It is a syndrome incompatible with life”………….

I will never forget hearing those words, that day back in October. It was the 26th to be exact. I remember feeling as though all of my blood was draining out of me. Coldness ran through my veins. I could not take another breath.

I felt as though I had just left my body. It was an altered state that I do not have the words to describe.

All of the hopes and the dreams that I had envisioned for my precious baby and I, were gone in an instant.

I would never rock him to sleep.

I would never nurse him.

I would never see him smile, hear him laugh, or even cry.

I wouldn’t see him shudder as he tasted his very first food.

I would never see him sit, crawl or walk.

There would be no first day of school.

There would be no graduations.

I would never kiss a boo-boo.

I would never meet his first girlfriend, see him get married, or hold his babies in my arms.

These are the things that I looked forward to doing with Bennett-Chadlen, from the moment I found out that the pregnancy test was positive.

I, like so many others, know the heartache of losing a precious life that grew inside my body. Mothers and fathers, siblings, and families around the world, know the pain of which I am sharing with you today.

Four million newborn babies die each year; every hour around 450 babies die before the age of four weeks.

According to the statistics, for women in their childbearing years, the chances of having a miscarriage can range from 10-25%, for a variety of reasons.

October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month; more specifically October 15^th has been declared Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Day worldwide. It is a day when families like mine are allowed to openly share their grief.

Many around the world take the time to share their baby’s story online, or speak out loud amongst family, friends, or coworkers. Some will release balloons, meditate in silence, or light a remembrance candle, such as I did.

A ‘Wave of Light’ shines around the globe in support of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day.

At 7pm in your time zone, participants are asked to light a candle for at least one hour to honour and remember those lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, and neonatal death.

What does this day to mean to us? The following are direct quotes from anonymous writers that submitted their feelings upon request:

“When you find out that you are expecting, all your friends and family gather around and can't wait to share every aspect of your pregnancy with you. However, when you lose that baby words escape these same individuals. You come to a point where you don't even want to discuss your baby because no one understands. Even now, years later, as I prepare for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness by wearing my ribbon and attending candlelight vigils, they treat me with kid gloves. They simply don’t know how to act.”

“We have feelings and our angels are just as important to us as your living children are to you. Take a moment to grasp the situation and try to understand where we are coming from. We don't need you to do anything other than be there for us. Don't try to steer clear of the conversations that we need to have. If you think it's uncomfortable (for you), how do you think we feel?”

“It means a day of reflection and loving memories for those I love that have lost, and time reflect on my own loss. It means being open and public about an all too often taboo subject that shouldn’t be shrouded with shame, but glory and beauty for the life that was. It means a home lit solely by candle light from many candles that bear names of those infants and early ending pregnancies of many I love.”

For more information about Pregnancy & Infant Loss Month or Remembrance Day, simply ‘search’ online, or check out some of these links

WrWritten by: Melissa Dawn Roy, Project Sweet Peas Canadian Project Affiliate for Nimkee Blessings

Shelby's Sunshine with Project Sweet Peas 2ND Annual Polar Plunge

2011-10-21T09:51:00.003-05:00

Come out and brave the cold for a great cause! All monies collected will go towards the purchase of items to fill gift bags for families with a child in the NICU.

INTERESTED in taking the PLUNGE?
For $20 you will take The Plunge and receive a Shelby's Sunshine t-shirt for your support! To officially "Plunge" you only have to get in the water up to your waist! Children are welcome to participate to any water level they are comfortable with.

Shelby's Sunshine is an INDIANA Chapter of Project Sweet Peas. We are a small project that is trying to make a difference in families who on a day to day basis are suffering.

We know the feeling of being in the NICU. Our daughter Shelby was in the NICU for 56 days. Going through day to day not knowing what the outcome would be was very difficult. Today Shelby is a 5 year old Blessing. We started Shelby's Sunshine to give to families that are in the same situation we were in.

Shelby's Sunshine with Project Sweet Peas 2nd Annual Polar Plunge is at the Mooose Lodge on November 27th 2011 starting at 2pm.

WILL YOU TAKE THE PLUNGE??

Any questions...please Stephanie Olivarez at Steph@projectsweetpeas.com

October Monthly Feature: Peek-A-Boo ICU

2011-10-17T09:37:00.006-05:00

For the month of October Project Sweet Peas is recognizing the efforts of Peek-A-Boo ICU in empowering the preemie parent. Peek-A-Boo ICU, run by the wonderful nurse Jodi, offers a wealth of knowledge to the NICU parent as they travel on the uncertain journey of parenting a critically ill child. This website also offers a comprehensive view into the perspective of a parent with a child in the NICU by providing an outlet for parents to share their journey and to communicate with other NICU families. Nurse Jodi is an amazing support to the NICU community and we are commending her for all that she does!

Thank you Peek-A-Boo ICU!

Nevaeh's Rainbow: Coffee for Carepacks

2011-10-04T07:32:00.001-05:00

Nevaeh's Rainbow is having a Coffee for Carepacks fundraiser! All proceeds will benefit Nevaeh's Rainbow Project.

to order please log onto:
www.BerresBrothers.com and place your order. Please use promo code NRPFR1112, so Nevaeh's Rainbow recieves the proceeds from your order.

Thank you!

Now accepting volunteer applications

2011-10-03T09:10:00.003-05:00

Project Sweet Peas is pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for volunteers! While we are not currently creating any new project divisions until next year, our organization is still looking for help in the following areas:

Sales Volunteer - Committed to the work of the organization, an initial time commitment of 3 hours a week and will lessen after that, handles the sales through our Cafepress online store, is responsible for uploading graphics, adjusting graphics size, and setting prices according to Board of Directors word. Reports to Board of Directors on a bi-monthly basis, but will be in close working relationship with the Board. It is preferred, but not required that the Sales Volunteer have knowledge of Cafepress functionality as well as graphic designs skills in case a graphic would need converted or edited.

Grant Researcher/Writer - Committed to the work of the organization, time commitment of 3 hours a month, researching government, foundation and corporate grants, establishing and maintaining working relationships with grant funders and helping Board of Directors with the writing and submission of the grants. Reports to Board of Directors on a monthly basis, but will be in close working relationship with the Board. It is preferred, but not required that the Grant Researcher/Writer have knowledge of the World Wide Web and previous experience in Grant Researching/Writing and online applications.

Fundraising Volunteer - Committed to the work of the organization, time commitment of 3 hours a month quarterly, research fundraising ideas that will raise funds for the Main Account, execute fundraising ideas that will raise funds for the Main Account, report fundraising idea to the Board of Directors for approval, and compile and manage the fundraiser set forth. Reports to Board of Directors on a bi-monthly basis, but will be in close working relationship with the Board. It is preferred, but not required that the Fundraising Volunteers have knowledge of the IRS’s 501(c)3 laws and have previous experience in fundraising efforts.

If you are interested, pleas fill out our online application (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dDVhSGYzTzlMd3IwcUVFalRhdnB4WlE6MQ) and we will get back to you shortly!

Thank you!

MJ's Memories Scentsy Fundraiser

2011-10-02T09:22:00.009-05:00

MJ's Memories is having a Scentsy Fundraiser in honor of their TWO YEAR Anniversary! Their fundraiser will run throughout the month of October, as they celebrate two years of helping families. Please visit https://anniemartin.scentsy.us/Home and click on MJ's Memories Fundraiser to order.

Scentsy makes great Holiday Gifts and you'll have them in plenty of time for to give! Scentsy is a safe, wickless alternative to candles. Scented wax melts in decorative warmers to fill your house with amazing scents!

MJ's Memories would like to send out a special thanks to Annie Martin for hosting this fundraiser for them!

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Month Contest

2011-09-30T22:53:00.002-05:00

In honor of the beginning of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month, we will holding a special contest for our fans!

Contestants will be chosen at random and the first place winner will receive a beautiful hand sculpted angel ornament; second place winner will receive a gorgeous hand painted Pregnancy and Infant Loss glass ornament; third, fourth and fifth place winners will receive a hand stamped broken heart pendant.

A special thanks to GabSha Designs for donating these prizes.

There are many ways to enter!

1. Go to our website and enter your angel in our Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day Personalized Candle Vigil which will be one entry in the contest.

2 .Comment under this post on our blog and that will be one entry in the contest.

3. Encourage others to come to our blog and comment under our “Pregnancy and Infant Loss Month Contest” post “____ sent me!” For every comment with your name in it, that will be another entry in our contest.

Winners will be announced on October 15th following our Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day Personalized Candle Vigil.

Shelby's Sunshone 2nd Annual Polar Plunge!

2011-09-22T21:48:00.002-05:00

SHELBY’S SUNSHINE WITH PROJECT SWEET PEAS SECOND ANNUAL POLAR PLUNGE
PLUNGE FOR NICU BABIES
NOVEMBER 27TH, 2011

SPONSORSHIP AND Contribution Opportunities

Shelby’s Sponsorship $50 - $100
*Logo displayed on the back of event t-shirt
*T-shirt
*Recognition at the event

Polar Plunge Contributor
*Donate a gift certificate, item, and/or basket to raffle; or a monetary donation of anyamount.
*Business name advertised on event t-shirt
*Recognition at event

ALL SPONSORSHIPS AND CONTRIBUTIONS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 20TH. CONTACT STEPH@PROJECTSWEETPEAS.COM FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

NICU Hallow-Boo!

2011-09-21T10:07:00.003-05:00

Join Shannon's Star to make costumes for babies in the NICU for
Hallow – BOO!
No sewing skills necessary!

October 16th, 2011
Rostraver Central Fire Department
Belle Vernon, PA
11am – 3pm
Lunch provided!
Volunteer and donate $15 and you will be entered to a win a fabulous prize!

For a donation of $6.00 you can help make 5 costumes!

~ About Luca ~
Luca Mateo Vincent was born at 24 weeks 3 days of gestation on October 8th, 2010 weighing
only 1lb and 5 ounces. He spent 43 days in the NICU until the day his parents feared; on November 20, 2010 he lost his life due to infection. While in the NICU, he received a NICU Hallowboo name tag from our 2010 fundraiser. Little did I understand at the time how much that would mean for his mom and dad, Heather and Matt. Luca was “Super Luca” for Halloween last year, and it is with him that the idea for this year’s NICU Hallowboo was struck.

Avi's Embrace Pregnancy and Infant Loss Pins for Sale!

2011-09-20T10:59:00.002-05:00

This pin is a perfect piece to show you are remembering and celebrating the life of your precious angel baby. This handmade pendant displays pink and blue intertwined ribbons, featuring a single white flower. A baby's footprint charm dangles from its center. Shipping is free within the U.S.

All proceeds go to benefit Avi's Embrace, a local chapter of Project Sweet Peas.

Ribbon Types:
Pink and Blue - Ribbons can be customized; when checking out, please note if you would like the blue or the pink ribbon as the forefront ribbon
Girl - Pink ribbon with sheer pink ribbon
Boy - Blue ribbon with blue sheer ribbon

Ribbons can be bought by following this link.

Drake's Doodlebug Walk/Run

2011-09-20T00:15:00.002-05:00

Drake's Doodlebugs is hosting a 2K walk/4K run on October 15, 2011 to help fund our project. It will be held in the Penn Mill Lakes subdivision in Covington Louisiana. We will have food, beverages, games, raffles, and a silent auction. Pre Register @ www.projectsweetpeas.com/thedoodlebugwalkrun.aspx ( when you pre register on the PSP site, please fill out the registration form and hit submit. You can make your donation after by selecting if you want to walk with us or in spirit and click add to cart. You will then be directed to paypal ) or register the day of the event from 9:00AM - 10:00am.Please come out and support Drake's Doodlebugs. With your help we can touch the lives of many families with a baby in the NICU, as well as give comfort to those parents who have a baby leave this world to soon.We are asking for a donation of $20.00 to walk/run. Children 10 and under are free.The 1st 120 walkers will receive a Drake's Doodlebugs run/walk T-shirt & a free bottle of water. .

If you cant walk with us in person ,walk with us in spirit ! Spirit Walkers will receive a Drake's Doodlebugs event T-shirt and an Infant loss and awareness wrist band.Registration formplease fill out the registration form at www.projectsweetpeas.com/thedoodlebugwalkrun.aspx or you can mail a copy of the registration form along with a check or money order to....Drake's Doodlebugs 717 Simpson way Covington,La 70435

You will receive a confirmation email once you are registered

If you have any questions please email Christy at drakesdoodlebugs@aol.com

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day Personalized Candle Vigil

2011-09-06T20:32:00.002-05:00

For the first time last October, Project Sweet Peas offered bereaved families a unique way to remember their baby angels on Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day without having to leave the comfort and privacy of their own home. With a wonderful response of over 400 angels to remember, Project Sweet Peas hosted the largest balloon release ever on October 15th. Project Sweet Peas decided to hold their 2nd annual Pregnancy and Infant Loss activity with a bit of a change.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Day Personalized Candle Vigil

Submit your angel's name(s) on our home page and we will write your angel's name on a candle. This special candle will be lit in memory of your loved one and we will take a picture and post on our Facebook Fanpage. *You may remain anonymous if you wish*

All candle will be lit together at 7pm in all time zones for a continuous wave of light across the country.

Deadline for name(s) submission os October 6th.

Please allow us one week to post the pictures on to our Facebook page. At which time, your name will appear in the caption so you know it is your angel, and you may tag yourself in the photo.

E-mail kate@projectsweetpeas.com for any additional information.

Project Sweet Peas Facebook Auction

2011-08-16T14:25:00.002-05:00

Project Sweet Peas will be hosting an online auction which will run from August 30th-September 5th on Facebook.

We will have an album with all the auction items, and fans will be able to bid in the comment section under the photo of the item. (You can find our Facebook page here www.facebook.com/ProjectSweetPeas)

Here is a list of items to be auctioned off (to see pictures and links to businesses please visit our webpage http://projectsweetpeas.com/PSPFacebookAuction.aspx)

Butterfly Baby Necklace by The Midnight Orange
Sweet Pea Tutu by Pink Rock Tutu Boutique
“Transformational Mothering” (book) by Amy Robbins Wilson
“The Divine Hours of Motherhood” (CD) by Amy Robbins Wilson
“Lullaby and Goodnight” (CD) by Amy Robbins Wilson
“Angel Baby Lullabies” (CD) by Amy Robbins Wilson
God’s Heart for You sterling sliver necklace by Day Spring
Autographed “Creation” print by Amy Brown Fantasy Art
5 “For The Love of Babies” (books) by Sue Hall, M.D.
Pirate scarf by MinkaDink
2 diaper bag totes by Crazy Mountain Quilters
Bracelet and Earring set by Tammy’s Treasures
Hand stamped necklace by Metal Stamped Memories
$20 gift certificate by Im Blessed
Assortment of Jewelry by Peace of Mind
Tutu and matching flower headband by Can I do you a favor?
$10 gift certificate by Small Bird Studios
Baby set (lovie, burp cloths, wet bags) by Gisella Chic
Hello Kitty crochet hat by Harpers Hats
Sterling silver earrings by iDazz
Glory Baby handstamped necklace by Hope of My Heart
March of Dimes clippies by Crochet and Clippie Creations
Sterling silver hand stamped necklace by Mama Mia
Baby Bucket (blanket, burp clothes, and wash clothes) by The Beach Barn
Colts fan pack by Indianapolis Colts
Assortment of baby headbands by Blossoms of Blessings/ Hailey’s Hope
UNKNOWN by Baa Baa Baby Boutique
Handstamped Daddy Dog Tag GabSha Designs
2 engraved Dogtags by My Forever Child
5 matted prints and note cards by Todd Philip Photography
Personalized “Wingseez” infant loss memorial blanket by Bel Scriba
Hand Sculpted Clay newborn by My Tangible Peace
NICU baby book by The Littlest Peanut
Cars themed baby quilt by Gabriel’s Gift
Girls Accessory Box by Avi’s Embrace
PSP gift set by Shannon’s Stars
Beignet and coffee set up by Drake’s Doodlebugs
Kansas City BBQ Basket by MJ’s Memories
5 Infant Loss Awareness packs by Angel Ryan’s Rainbow of Hope
Necklace and Earring Set by Mason’s Monarchs
Toddler Dress by Kit’s Muse
Quillow by Kit’s Muse
Preemie Boy Welcome Home Pack by Pirate Power
4 votive candle holders by Donny’s Shining Light
Locket and Earrings by Lauren & Madeline’s Gift
2 sets of Journals by Owen’s Miracle
2 Willow Tree Figurines by Roses from Rosalynn

Auction Guidelines:

Auction will open for bids August 30th and close September 5th at 11pm EST

Bids cannot be removed, committed bidders only.

Bids must be in full dollar increments.

Shipping is included (US only) in opening bid UNLESS stated otherwise in the item description. International bidders are welcome, and will be responsible for additional postage costs.

Due to Facebook guidelines, we cannot contact winning bidders through Facebook messages. Please make sure to either leave a contact email with your bid, or email us (info@projectsweetpeas.com) your contact information prior to placing bids to be notified of your winnings at the close of auction. If we do not receive contact information the winning bidders will be given three days after the close of auction to email us.

Payments: PayPal invoices will be sent and must be paid within 4 days of being sent.
**If you do not have a PayPal account, PayPal now allows invoices to be paid using credit cards**

For any questions regarding items, bidding, or the auction in general, please send us an email at info@projectsweetpeas.com

This auction is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook.

Flier for Donny's Shining Light Fundraiser

2011-07-19T11:51:00.001-05:00

Here's a flier from Donny's Shining Light with more information about their 2nd Annual Yard & Craft Sale we mentioned in our last post!

Donny's Shining Light Yard & Craft Sale

2011-07-16T09:06:00.000-05:00

On Aug. 5th-6th, Donny's Shining Light, a local project in Illinois of Project Sweet Peas, will be hosting a yard sale/craft sale.

This event is made possible due to friends and family donating items to be sold. Every dollar raised will go towards buying or making items to go in the gift bags Donny's Shining Light delivers to the NICU.

Every little bit helps and Theresa sends out her heartfelt thanks and gratitude for all support sent their way. She helps other families who are in the same place she was once...please help her heart reach out to them. These gift bags offer such comfort and wonderful memories.

Questions? Email Theresa@Projectsweetpeas.com

PSP 1st Annual Walk for Preemie Peas

2011-07-12T10:14:00.002-05:00

Project Sweet Peas' 1st Annual Walk for Preemie Peas is looking for the "Sweet Pea" of the walk!

Enter your preemie sweet pea for a chance to be named the event's "Sweet Pea"!

The Sweet Peas will start our walk, be named on our event t-shirt, announced at the walk, and have a poster about them hanging at the event! Plus get a free t-shirt and two free adult registrations!

Two Sweet Peas will be picked:
1. Grad Sweet Pea
Enter in this category if your preemie has graduated from the NICU

2. Angel Sweet Pea
Enter in this category if your preemie is now a beautiful angel

To enter your preemie go to: http://shannonsstar.com/sweetpea.aspx
Any preemie can enter as long as you are able to make the event!

Event details including dates and location can be found at the event webpage: http://shannonsstar.com/walk4preemiepeas.aspx

If you don't live close to the walk's location, consider making an "In Memory/Honor of" $50 donation and preemie's name will be featured on the event t-shirt and you will get one free!

Proceeds will benefit the main Project Sweet Peas' account and local project Shannon's Star.

E-mail kate@projectsweetpeas.com if you have questions or to donate.

Pirate Power Journals for July Fundraiser!

2011-07-07T10:02:00.003-05:00

Project Sweet Peas local project Pirate Power is holding a fundraiser: "Journals for July."

Pirate Power would like to collect at least 100 journals during the month of July.

All journals will be put in NICU care bags.

Journals can be blank or lined inside and can be spiral bound or case bound.

Journals can be donated in memory of a child. Please include a note with a name and/or DOB of the child the journal is being donated on behalf of.

Journals can be sent to:
Pirate Power
PO Box 54400
San Jose, CA 95154

Questions? Email project leader Stephanie at StephanieBrown@projectsweetpeas.com

Kit's Muse Makes the News!

2011-07-06T18:34:00.000-05:00

Project Sweet Peas local project Kit's Muse was recently featured on the front page of their local newspaper: DeKalb County Record Herald. Below is an image of the article (it is not available online) - you can click to enlarge.

MJ's Memories Wins Awards!

2011-07-06T14:25:00.002-05:00

MJ's Memories recently won the Organization of the Year award from the United Way and project leader Megan Skaggs was nominated for the Volunteer of the Year Award! A local newspaper interviewed Megan for these outstanding achievements!

You can read the article by following this link: http://cjonline.com/news/2011-06-28/united-way-announces-volunteer-award-winners#.ThS2bGEsbSg

Welcome Mason's Monarchs!

2011-06-22T15:18:00.003-05:00

Project Sweet Peas would like to officially welcome a new local project that joined us this month: Mason's Monarchs!Shannon Mason is project leader of Mason's Monarchs, which is serving a local hospital in Florida. For more information about Mason's Monarchs, please email Shannon@projectsweetpeas.com.

Here is the story of the Mason family...

I always knew that I wanted to be a wife and mother. At 17 I was lucky enough to have found the perfect man, we married a few years later and began our journey to parenthood. However the journey was anything but pleasant. We began our marriage with three heartbreaking first trimester miscarriages and then a battle to discover the reasoning. I have PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and this caused complications. So we took a few years to give my body time to heal and started over again. The next roadblock was infertility issues.

We solved the fertility issues by having IVF in 2007 and fell pregnant with twins. The first I lost to vanishing twin syndrome and was immediately placed on bed rest. A few weeks later I gave birth to his brother at 17 weeks. No explanation! The following winter I delivered twin boys at 19 weeks! Three baby’s all born sleeping. We discovered that I had an incompetent cervix and it could not hold the weight of a growing baby.

We had to try one more time… so I received a TAC (transabdominal cerclage) and we spent the last of our money on another round of IVF. All of our eggs in one basket, so to speak. On June 4, 2010, I delivered a healthy baby boy via caesarean. His lungs were not fully developed but after all we had been though the doctors let him stay with us versus going to NICU.

We believe that everything happens for a reason, the bad as well as the good. Whether you hold your baby for a day, a week, a month, or years the pain still exist when they are no longer with you. Through Mason’s Monarchs we hope that we can give strength and courage to other parents who are grieving or fighting the battle to keep their little ones alive.

Welcome Gabriella's Grace!

2011-06-16T12:30:00.000-05:00

Project Sweet Peas would like to officially welcome a new local project in Gabriella's Grace, which joined us in May! Gwen Weber is Gabriella's mom and the project leader of Gabriella's Grace, which donates care packages to a local hospital in Ohio.

For more information on Gabriella's Grace, please email Gwen at Gwen@projectsweetpeas.com.

Here is Gabriella's story ...

My husband Jake and I got married in July and quickly set about starting a family. That November we were overjoyed when we found out that we were expecting a baby in August. I was ecstatic when I found out I was having a baby girl and spent most of my days off shopping, decorating, and planning for her arrival and dreaming of the moment she would be in my arms. My pregnancy was not what I would call pleasant; I battled morning sickness all day long, Gabriella kept me up all night doing acrobatics, and by the end of May I was ordered to work half days because my feet and legs were so swollen. Around the end of June I started to feel better and decided to go to some garage sales with a close friend who was expecting a baby in the beginning of July. When I woke up that morning I did not feel quite right. I was not in pain; I just didn’t feel right. When we got the first sale, I told my friend that my stomach was hard and I couldn’t fell Gabriella move as much. She felt my stomach and suggested I call my doctor. When I arrived at the doctor’s office she did a non stress test and exam. There were no signs of contractions and Gabriella was moving just fine however I was dilated a centimeter so the doctor felt I must be having some type of contractions. She gave me some medications to stop the contractions and told me to rest for the remainder of the weekend and go immediately to the hospital if anything did not feel right. Well the next morning I woke up around 9 am and my water broke on my way to take a shower. My husband and I quickly threw a few items into a bag and headed to the hospital. The hours that followed are all blur to me still. We arrived to the hospital and the nurses started to fill out the paperwork but my contractions got closer and closer. I went from 4 centimeters to 9.5 centimeters within a matter of ten minutes and can vaguely remember being wheeled in to the delivery room. After pushing for a short time, our baby girl Gabriella Grace arrived at 12:54 pm weighing 4lbs 7 ounces. This moment of arrival was not the one I had dreamed of, I had a few seconds to kiss my baby girl and stoke her head as she had to go straight to the NICU. My husband was able to go with her and talk to the doctors. I had to stay in recovery and finish my admittance paperwork. When I finally had the chance to see my baby girl I was not prepared for how she would look. She was hooked up to so many wires and tubes I could hardly see her tiny face. I just remember feeling so scared and helpless. The doctors and nurses were very kind to us and explained all the details regarding Gabriella’s health and care. They explained that her body needed to begin to regulate its own temperature, breathe, and eat without any help before she could come home. Probably the hardest part was the first night home without our daughter. It felt so empty and sad; I just wanted to hold my baby in my arms and take care of her. There would be many painful and tearful moments over the next few weeks but Jake and I continued to pray and put our faith in God that Gabriella would be okay. Over the next three weeks, we were regulars at the NICU spending all day there and only taking breaks to eat and sleep. We learned how to take part in all of our daughter’s care and I began pumping milk and working with the lactation consultant to teach Gabriella to breastfeed. We also attended parent groups at the NICU where we learned how to care for our preemie. At these parent’s groups we met other families and it helped us to realize how blessed we were that our daughter was as healthy as she was and that we had such wonderful resources and support systems. We had friends and family, who prayed for us, sent us uplifting emails and text messages, brought flowers and cards, made usmeals, bought and washed preemie clothes, let our dogs out, and came to visit. We found that so many other families had to travel far distances, care for older children, worry about cooking meals, and had to find a way to balance work and hospital time. Some families had not even had baby showers yet, so they had to worry about purchasing basic baby care items for when their little one returned home. We can only imagine how much harder this would have been if we had all of these other stressors in our lives. Today Gabriella or “Ella Grace” as we call her is a feisty, playful, and happy soon to be one year old. She is meeting all of her developmental milestones and is very social baby. We are so thankful for all of the support we received and grateful to all of the wonderful staff at the NICU who cared for her and taught us so much. It is our hope that through Project Sweet Peas, local project Gabriella’s Grace we can help make other families time in the NICU a little more comfortable. We would like to provide families with items that they can use while in the NICU and when they get home. We know that we cannot take away all of the stress and pain that can be occur when your baby is in the NICU but we would like to help make this experience a little bit easier.

Welcome Kit's Muse & Kit's Muse Yarn Drive!

2011-06-15T18:00:00.000-05:00

This post contains a lot of important information so please make sure you read the whole thing!

First, Project Sweet Peas would like to welcome another new local project, Kit's Muse! Jennifer is the project leader of Kit's Muse and Kit's mom. Kit's Muse donates care packages to its local hospital in Missouri. For more information, contact Jennifer by emailing her at Jennifer@projectsweetpeas.com.

Secondly, Kit's Muse will be having it's first Yarn Drive!! Please see the flier below for all the info you need to help provide beautiful gowns and pouches for angel babies as well as hats, mitts, booties and more for our NICU babies and families. (If you have trouble reading the flier, please click on the image so you can enlarge it; if you're still having problems, contact Jennifer at her email listed above!)

Here is Kit's story as told by Jennifer...

When I found out I was pregnant it was a happy day. Kitquin would make child number three and mark the end of our baby days. Since I had already had two children I assumed the third would be easy. My oldest boys were ages 9 and 11. I went to my doctor and it was determined I would have a full clotting blood panel done. I did not have this test with my other children but I was older now and my mother and grandfather have a history of blood clotting so we felt it was important. A week later I got a call. I was told I had MTHFR a genetic blood clotting disorder. Due to these findings I was set up to see a perinatologist as well as my normal doctor. MTHFR can lead to late term still birth, slow growth and other issues related to blood flow to the baby. Halfway through the pregnancy I started having contractions too often and was admitted twice to make sure I was not in labor. Everything always calmed down though and I was put on bed rest. At my 7 month doctor appointment I told him I just didn’t feel like Kitquin was growing and at my 7.5 month Perinatologist appointment I was told Kitquin was not growing. I was induced 2 days later. On May 21st 2009 Kitquin Maryanna Angeline Edwards was born via
induction weighing 5 lbs 5 oz and 18 in long. She had just hit 36 weeks gestation that day. She did not do well. She couldn’t breathe on her own and her heart rate was fast. The level II NICU she was in couldn’t support her needs and she was transferred to a level III NICU when she was 3 days old. After transport she was given surfactant to open her lungs and put on a full vent. She was on 2 antibiotics and an antiviral and had an NG tube to down her nose to feed her. We could not hold her for 5 days and for the first 3 would couldn’t touch her, talk much around her or be too near her incubator. Kitquin developed a blister on her head that couldn’t be explained. They needed to rule out blood infections so she endured 10 spinal taps. No infection was ever found. After many ups and downs we brought Kitquin home on June 2nd 2009. She was not in the NICU for what many would consider a long time. We spent 12 days in the NICU but it seems like a lifetime to me. Kitquin is now a small but healthy toddler. The NICU experience still sticks with us though and that’s why Kit’s Muse was conceived. It is our mission to create hand crafted Angel gowns, hats, mitts, booties and other goods to help comfort and add smiles to families with their baby in the NICU.

A (Belated) Welcome to Avi's Embrace!

2011-06-15T12:21:00.003-05:00

We recently realized that we haven't been keeping up with welcoming local projects on our blog, and we figured it's about time we start doing that again!
Project Sweet Peas welcomed a new local project in February called Avi's Embrace. Sarah King is Avi's mom and the project leader of Avi's Embrace, which donates care packages to a local hospital in Indiana.

For more information on Avi's Embrace, please email Sarah at SarahKing@projectsweetpeas.com.

Here is Avi's Story . . .

Our story begins in the fall of 2008. From the moment we learned of Avi’s existence, he became our world. Shortly after we became aware of our pregnancy Avi’s grandmother was in a horrific accident and passed away shortly after. Avi became a light during a dark time.

At fourteen weeks we meet our little man through ultrasound. He was so small and so beautiful. The doctors said everything appeared wonderful; he was perfect (at least to me.) My pregnancy progressed with ease and around 30 weeks we found out we were having a little baby boy, our Avi.

As the weeks went by my doctor grew concerned about how small I was measuring for the baby’s gestational age. We did an ultrasound almost every single week to watch his growth. Every time the ultrasounds showed growth was normal.

Forty weeks came and went. I grew very exhausted and eager to meet my son. During the end of my pregnancy I had been experiencing some fluid leakage and had been tested several times to see if it was amniotic fluid. All tests were negative. Several days before I experienced labor pains, I experienced large amounts of fluid. I contacted my OB's office several times within that period to alert them, but they didn’t seem alarmed due to my past history.

On July 13, 2009 at 41 weeks and 3 days I experienced contractions. I called the doctor and let them know of their severity. They told me to come into the hospital. I was more than ready to meet my beautiful son. Upon arriving the OB on call checked my cervix. My water had already broken but my cervix was only slightly dilated. This meaning that my water could have broken in any time period between that morning and a few days prior. I was mortified as they also found out that the cord was wrapping around his throat three times.

His heart rate was dropping. My sweet baby had been in this state without the cushion of amniotic fluid, and he was being suffocated. I was taken to the operating room, where an emergency c-section was performed. When he arrived into this world he was silent and my heart stopped. He was rushed to the NICU and myself to the recovery area. So many thoughts raced through my mind, thoughts of guilt, thoughts of blame, but mostly my thoughts and heart were with my little one struggling to survive.

After several hours they stabilized him. The first time I saw him, my arms ached to hold him. I could do nothing in my power to comfort him. Continually, throughout the day, my little Avi pulled out his IV and other life lines. He kicked and fussed. Oh, how I wanted to comfort him. He would see comfort soon though, but not in a way I could ever want.

Around 12AM, June 15, 2009 we received a call from the NICU. "He isn't doing well." I rushed to his bedside. There was no squirming anymore, and there was no kicking. They had given him a heavy dose of morphine. He was dying and he was laying there motionless, paralyzed by his painkillers. We held him and cried. We said our goodbyes in the only way we knew how and sang him his song. It was unbearable to give him to the nurse, the last time I choose to ever see him again.

At his funeral my father mentioned that Avi has taught us more than many people have in their long lifetimes. He has taught me a deeper appreciation for life and my loved ones, how strong the bond between mother and child is, and has helped me discover strength within myself that I would have never known otherwise. He has given me motivation to better myself and to achieve what I had never thought possible. My son was beautiful, and was a valued individual despite his short lifespan. I am very blessed to have been given the time I had with him. I will always carry him within my heart.

I can only hope that through Project Sweet Peas I can provide some amount of comfort to parents who are forced to endure the same pain of watching their child struggle for their life and to those that have also had to say goodbye. I would like families to know that regardless of the outcome there is hope in every situation and happiness in memory.

Lauren & Madeline's Gift in the News!

2011-06-13T18:35:00.002-05:00

Below is the link for the article that appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel about my girls and Project Sweet Peas!

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/121843388.html

~Lisa Rondeau, Project Leader of Lauren and Madeline's Gift

PSP Seeking Items for Auction

2011-06-02T09:41:00.001-05:00

Project Sweet Peas will be hosting an online auction in August. We are currently looking for items or baskets to feature in our auction. If you are interested in donating please contact us at info@projectsweetpeas.com for more information.

NICU Book Questionnaire

2011-06-01T17:00:00.000-05:00

NICU parents (past and present) are needed to fill out a questionnaire to assist with the writing of a new book for parents in the NICU. Deborah Davis (author of Empty Cradle, Broken Heart and Parenting Your Premature Baby and Child) is in the process of writing a book on parenting in the NICU and has asked for NICU parents' assistance. Once this book is complete we look forward to adding it to our care packages!

Please consider taking the time to fill out the questionnaire found here:

http://www.nicuparenting.org/NICU_Book_Questionnaire.html

Hailey's Hope Book Sponsorship

2011-05-25T12:58:00.000-05:00

Local project Hailey’s Hope is currently holding a book sponsorship drive for the book Prayers from the NICU: A Mother’s Devotional by Jeanna J. Plunkett.

Because this item is not normally included in our care packages, Hailey’s Hope is having a special book sponsorship drive. For now, this sponsorship drive will continue until we have at least 25 books sponsored, but ideally we'd like to place our order by the end of June.

A $10 donation will sponsor 1 book to be donated to a mother in the NICU. Individuals and/or groups have the option of sponsoring multiple books if desired.

If you or someone you know would like to become a sponsor, please view the flier below or go to our event page on the Project Sweet Peas’ website: Prayers from the NICU Book Sponsorship Drive.

Any questions should be directed at Kristin@projectsweetpeas.com

Angel Bracelets

2011-05-24T19:55:00.000-05:00

When you purchase from Angel Bracelets, a $2 donation will go to Project Sweet Peas. At checkout, select Project Sweet Peas to receive the donation.

Go to http://www.angelbracelets.org now!

Thank you Angel Bracelets!

Preemie Power Wristbands!

2011-05-24T12:49:00.002-05:00

Exciting news! Peek-a-boo ICU has PREEMIE POWER wristbands! For every wristband sold, one will be donated to Project Sweet Peas.

If you have a premature baby or know a relative, friend, or coworker who has been touched by the birth of a baby born too soon, consider buying one of these empowering wristbands today!

Visit the following link for more information: http://www.peekabooicu.net/preemie-power-wristband/

Shelby's Sunshine Tupperware Fundraiser

2011-05-16T14:35:00.003-05:00

A local fund-raising event for Shelby's Sunshine will be held this Sunday in Indiana!
(Have trouble viewing the poster? Click on image to enlarge)
Questions? Email steph@projectsweetpeas.com

Owen's Miracle Pancakes for Preemies

2011-05-12T10:36:00.000-05:00

Join in on the fun! Help Owen's Miracle comfort families with babies in the NICU

For Only $7.00 buy a ticket and join us Saturday, July 2nd for a pancake breakfast at Applebee's in Sonora, CA. All proceeds will go to buying items for filling gift bags for preemie parents at Oakland Children's Hospital NICU or Doctor's Medical Center NICU in Modesto.

There will be a raffle with prizes, a silent auction, and more!

See you there!

For tickets call 209-559-6271

Questions? Email Kathleen@projectsweetpeas.com

MJ's Memories Volunteer Day

2011-05-09T13:07:00.001-05:00

MJ's Memories is having a Volunteer Day June 4, 2011 at Central Park Community Center in Topeka, KS.

Volunteers are needed to help us make the precious items given to families in the intensive care unit at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, KS and Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO.

Items that need to be made/completed include:
- Memory Boxes
- Hand/Foot Print Kits
- NICU Isolette Name Plaques
- Baby Eye Masks
- Various Other Items

To learn more about MJ's Memories, please visit:
http://projectsweetpeas.com/MJsMemories.aspx

Questions?
Email Megan@Projectsweetpeas.com

Project Sweet Peas Donates Its 2,000th Bag!

2011-04-27T13:27:00.003-05:00

Project Sweet Peas reached a milestone on Thursday, April 21, 2011:

We delivered our 2,000th care package!

Project leader, Kate, and co-leader, Jessica, of Shannon's Star had the honor of making the special delivery at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh's NICU.

Thank you to everyone who has supported Project Sweet Peas! It's amazing to see that since the beginning of PSP in October 2009 how much growth and support has occurred so that we can be celebrating our 2,000th delivery less than 2 years from our start! This means that because of our generous supporters, 2,000 families have received a touch of comfort from our care packages.

If you'd like to support Project Sweet Peas or any of our local projects, visit our website for all the ways to get involved: www.projectsweetpeas.com

Thanks!

Giveaway Winners!

2011-04-25T13:34:00.001-05:00

Ramdon.org was used to randomize the list of over 50 applicants in our giveaway. We decided to add a surprise in and have a 3rd winner and another bracelet since we had so many wonderful and touching stories shared!

Here are our giveaway winners:
1. Leah Kennedy entered in on our blog
2. Alexandrea entered in on our blog
3. Amanda Morgan Gilmore entered in via Peek-a-Boo ICU

We need the winners to claim their prize and email us their address to info@projectsweetpeas.com as soon as possible.

Congratulations!

NICU Mom Mother's Day Give Away!

2011-04-18T12:46:00.005-05:00

(New info posted April 20th! Re-read this post to find out!)

Project Sweet Peas is having a NICU Mom Mother's Day Give Away!*

(*All contestants must be an ICU Mom, new or old, one day or hundreds of days)

Enter to win our Mother's Day bracelet from now until April 22nd!

Winner will be announced April 25th

How to enter:

#1 Go to our blog, follow it and comment under the blog post (if you're reading this on the blog - leave a comment to this post!).

#2 Suggest friends to "like" our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/ProjectSweetPeas) and have them post under our note that they were sent by them. For every time your name is mentioned, it is another entry.

Update - April 20th: We're giving away another bracelet and a third way to win!
#3"Like" Peek-a-boo ICU, tell them Project Sweet Peas sent you, and you will be entered to win one of two Mom Sentiment bracelets!

That's right ... You have 3 ways to enter to win 1 of 2 bracelets!!

Questions? Email info@projectsweetpeas.com

Why: PSP Takes a Minute to Explain The Need and How We Meet It

2011-04-13T10:34:00.002-05:00

PART 1: WHY ARE OUR CARE PACKAGES NEEDED?

From time to time a project leader is asked why hospitals would need or want the care packages we donate to their parents who have children in the intensive care unit. "Don't the hospitals give them that stuff? Why don't the parents have those things with them? Are the families poor?" After being confronted with such questions, we began to wonder how many people without NICU experience ask themselves the same questions about why Project Sweet Peas does what it does.

We would like to attempt to answer the question “Why are our care packages important?” to provide insight, clarification, and understanding into the importance behind what Project Sweet Peas does and in hopes of encouraging people to help support us.

Often families arrive in the NICU in an emergency situation that was unexpected, leaving them unprepared and needing the items we provide them with in our care packages. The issue of families not having items they need often has nothing to do with the financial status of the family, although medical bills do pile up and some families probably already come in experiencing financial hardships, but many families who arrive unprepared are financially secure and successful. Therefore, it's not that they can't afford to buy these items, it's that they don't have access to them! Many families are living at the hospital or perhaps at a nearby Ronald McDonald House or hotel and do not have the option of going home (many being hours away from home anyway) or of spending time finding stores to go shopping for these items.

Moreover, hospitals and NICUs themselves do not provide the items that we include in our bags. If anything, some may have the unisex blanket and hat that most babies are given when born. Occasionally a NICU may have other organizations donating stuffed animals or name plaques, but often times there’s nothing for baby and especially nothing for the rest of the family. The purpose of the intensive care units is to provide medical care for the baby, not the items we donate to them.

Most families who end up spending time in a NICU are not prepared for the experience. Project Sweet Peas functions to meet this need so the families don't have to worry about how they're going to get everything they need. The parents’ focus is the health and survival of their new baby, and they are living under an incredibly stressful circumstance every second of every day. Therefore, our care packages provide them with items that make their stay more comforting, offer them glimpses of hope and love, and give them the items they need and want.

PART 2: WHY DO WE INCLUDE THE ITEMS THAT WE DO?

Project leaders are also asked from time to time about why we include certain items in our care packages. Like with the questions asked above in Part 1, we realized that when someone doesn’t have personal experience having a child in the intensive care unit, they have a hard time understanding what a person would need. Therefore, we thought we’d also take some time to share about the reasons we include the items that we do in our basic NICU care packages. (Please remember each project’s basic NICU bag may be slightly different; the items mentioned below are general items most projects try to include.)

ITEMS FOR BABY: blanket, stuffed animal, cap / hat, booties / socks, scratch mittens, baby brush/comb, baby clothing item. These items for baby enable parents to care for and bond with their baby. A mother’s touch only accounts for 14% of baby’s interaction in the NICU, which can lead to sensory issues. They help make the NICU life as "homey" and "warm" as possible. They can bring comfort and love to both the families and babies.

MEMORY MAKING ITEMS: disposable camera, picture frame, birth record pillow/item, hand/foot print kits or molds. These items give parents the opportunity to capture memories with their new babies, something all new parents want to do. Many babies in intensive care are experiencing serious, life-threatening conditions; therefore, capturing moments with their babies are even more important for parents. These items help families record, remember, and celebrate their new child’s life. For instance, a picture frame can be used to display a picture of the family by the baby at all times or it can be used for the parents to keep and display a picture of their baby so that they have it with them during the times they have to be separated.

ITEMS FOR PARENTS: lip balm, hand sanitizer, tissue packs, travel size toiletries, journals, pens. Lip balm and tissue packs are needed due to the results of the emotional and physical stress of being in a NICU. Hand sanitizer helps keep the family’s hands clean and germ free when they're touching their fragile babies. Travel size toiletries are needed because parents are often sleeping in hospitals, at Ronald McDonald Houses, or hotels while their babies are in NICUs, and they don't have any of the personal care items they need. Journals and pens are needed for parents to write down information given to them by doctors regarding conditions, procedures, and so on; they can also be used for parents to record milestones and memories.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS: children's book, puzzle books. Children's books can be used in a variety of ways. Parents can use the books to bond with their babies because the babies can hear their parents’ voices as they read. Children's books can also help entertain siblings who are there in the hospital with the baby and parents. Puzzle books (like crosswords, sodukus, etc.) are included sometimes as items to help the parents pass the time that is spent waiting when they can't be with their babies. It can help them take their minds off of things for a moment.

Every single item a included in the care packages donated by Project Sweet Peas is either a necessity for families to have or an important item of comfort that can help make life the best it can be for a family with a baby in a NICU. Most project leaders who have had their own children in intensive care units will tell you that if we had received a bag with all of these items when we arrived, it would have been like a sigh of relief, a breath of fresh air, a momentary weight lifted from our shoulders. We wouldn't have had to worry about not having those items and wonder how we'd get them. We would have felt loved, supported, and less alone on a frightening journey. It’s our hope to use our own experiences to make the experience of someone else better.

Vote for MJ's Memories to Win $100!

2011-04-08T14:01:00.003-05:00

Last month Megan Skaggs, project leader of MJ's Memories, was honored as her local news station's Sunflower Heroes. She is now eligible to receive $100 donated to the charity of their choice, MJ's Memories, if she receives the most votes!

To vote visit the following link:

http://www.ksnt.com/content/features/sunflower/default.aspx

You have to scroll down to the bottom of the page and vote for Megan Skaggs.

I believe you can vote as many times as you like throughout the month, so vote often!

Thank you!

PSP Cafepress Store

2011-04-04T18:41:00.001-05:00

The new Project Sweet Peas' Cafepress store is up and running!

Now you can order new products like earrings, necklaces, phone covers and wall stickers! Has a little bit of everything including T-Shirts, mugs, clocks, baby items, dog items, and office supplies!

To shop now and show your support for Project Sweet Peas, visit: http://www.cafepress.com/projectsweetpeas

Happy shopping!

Peek-a-Boo ICU

2011-04-02T17:14:00.003-05:00

RN Jodi from Peek-a-Boo ICU will be collaborating with PSP to offer support and advice from the nurse's perspective.

She has a new site that is a window into the world of Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) from the eyes of a nurse. The website provides information and support to parents of a preemie or baby in the NICU. RN Jodi offers advice to NICU parents and has a forum for you to chat with her and other parents!

Check out her site now! http://www.peekabooicu.net/

Disclaimer:
Please know that my opinions are strictly my own and in no way reflect that of any institution or organization. I offer advice, support, and experience based on my education and role as a NICU Nurse. This should in no way be construed as a substitution for the recommendations of your medical provider. Please make sure to check with your child’s doctor or healthcare provider before implementing any changes. Thank you for your participation on this page and the website, I look forward to your stories, comments, and questions!

Adopt a NICU Mom Campaign for Mother's Day!

2011-03-21T19:16:00.003-05:00

Project Sweet Peas is kicking off the Adopt A NICU Mom Campaign for Mother's Day!

Here's how it works:
Visit our website www.projectsweetpeas.com and purchase a beautiful sentiment bracelet for that special Mom in your life for only $25.00, and we will match your purchase to donate a bracelet to a NICU Mom!

When ordering, you can specify which local project you would like to see receive the bracelet that we will donate because of your purchase.

Pass this on and help us lift the spirits of these beautiful and wonderful Mothers!

The campaign ends April 30th!

Questions? Email info@projectsweetpeas.com

Hailey's Hope Donates to Vanderbilt

2011-03-19T14:18:00.005-05:00

Hailey's Hope recently moved from AL to TN and decided to continue to serve The Children's Hospital of Alabama in Birmingham, AL as well as a local hospital in its community in TN.

This past week Hailey's Hope made its first delivery to the NICU at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. Kristin, project leader of Hailey's Hope, along with her husband delivered 30 basic NICU bags in honor of Friday, March 18th being Trisomy 18 Awareness Day. Trisomy 18 is what their daughter Hailey had and passed away from and is the inspiration for their project.

Kristin is very excited to partner with and serve a second NICU!

We also wanted to remind you that there are only a few weeks left to participate in Hailey's Hope's spring fundraiser, Flowers of Hope, and your help is needed to reach their goal. Order your flower bulbs for spring planting from Hailey's Hope, and 50% of the profit is donated to them!

To order visit this link: http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/campaign?campaign_id=4349

MJ's Memories in the News

2011-03-19T14:13:00.000-05:00

Project Leader for MJ's Memories, Megan Skaggs, was also recently featured as Topeka's own Sunflower Hero! Check her out!!

http://projectsweetpeas.com/mjsinthenews.aspx

http://www.ksnt.com/news/local/story/Megan-Skaggs/Dg4GEISSpEemX2C1j8MjdA.cspx

We also want to remind everyone about MJ's Memories Walk, which is a great way to enjoy the beautiful spring weather! You can register to walk, or walk with them in spirit if you cannot attend!
http://projectsweetpeas.com/MJswalk.aspx

MJ's Memories 2 Mile Walk

2011-02-28T20:14:00.003-06:00

MJ's Memories will be benefiting from a 2 Mile Walk held May 1, 2011 from 1 pm to 4 pm. There will be a Balloon Release held at 3 pm.

The 2 Mile Walk will be held at Century Park Boat Shelter in Vernon Hills, IL. Participants can walk with us on May 1 or they can Walk in Spirit. Pre-registered walkers and Walk in Spirit participants $20 fee includes a t-shirt, 5 raffle tickets, and a balloon to release. Walk in Spirit participants will have their personalized message written on the balloon released for them and a picture taken will be sent to them. Pre-registered walkers and Walk in Spirit participants must be registered by April 20, 2011.

Walkers can register the day of for $25 which includes 5 raffle tickets, a balloon to release, and a t-shirt (if available).

Mike and Kathy McEvilly are hosting this event. Mike and Kathy are MJ's grandparents. For more information on the walk please contact project leader Megan Skaggs at megan@projectsweetpeas.com or Mike and Kathy at michaelm3890@sbcglobal.net

You can register online here: http://projectsweetpeas.com/MJswalk.aspx

PSP Tax Exempt Status

2011-02-27T20:10:00.002-06:00

We are happy to report that Project Sweet Peas has finally received our official tax exempt status from the IRS!

This means that all donations to Project Sweet Peas and our local projects are tax deductible.

Our effective date of exemption is September 14th, 2010 (which it is back dated to our incorporation date).

Project leaders will be receiving receipt forms this week, and leaders will then be able to provide receipts to people who donate to their projects. Again, these receipts can be used for tax purposes.

To recap what we have been working long and hard on: we are now officially a registered non-profit organization with our 501c3 tax exempt status! We're hoping this will mean great things for our projects and most importantly great things for those we help.

If you have any questions, please email info@projectsweetpeas.com.

Donny's Shining Light Birthday Celebration Event

2011-02-16T10:20:00.001-06:00

Donny's Shining Light NICU Springtime (Birthday Celebration) Name Tags

Donny's 5th birthday is coming up in March! In celebration of my son's Birthday, I will be making name tags for babies in the NICU. These name tags will be a wonderful keepsake for the families. A donation of $6.00 will provide a name tag for a baby in the NICU. It will help build precious memories and celebrate the life of my precious angel, Donny. Please help make his 5th birthday the best yet! He is smiling on us all, spreading his loving, shining light into our hearts.

For more information, please contact me at my email, theresa@projectsweetpeas.com

Kiernan's Kindness - Feb is Cuddle Month!

2011-02-15T10:03:00.001-06:00

From now and running through November 18th Kiernan's Kindness is doing an on-going item drive with each month as a different theme and set of items on request.

February is our Cuddle month so we are asking for Hats, Blankets, and Birth Record pillows.

Our goal is to be able to put together 25 bags for the NICU and 18 for the PICU to be delivered on December 18th.

One the first of each month we will update with what the new month theme is and th items we are looking for. Please help us out if you can. These items may be simply but can truly make the bggest difference in a parents day when going through the experience of the NICU or PICU.

Contact Julie or Danielle via Facebook or email with any questions.
julie@projectsweetpeas.com
danielle@projectsweetpeas.com

Flowers of Hope Fundraiser

2011-02-04T19:07:00.004-06:00

Local Project Sweet Peas' project, Hailey’s Hope, serving hospitals in Alabama and Tennessee, needs your help!

This April will be the project's 1 year anniversary. You can help Hailey's Hope celebrate its anniversary and make it successful in its 2nd year of donating care packages to families with babies in intensive care units by participating in the project's current fundraiser, Flowers of Hope.

Flowers of Hope will run from February 1st to April 15th. During this time you can order flowers from the fundraising campaign through Flower Power, and Hailey's Hope will receive 50% of all sales! Shipping is a flat rate of $5 per order. Ordering is easy and can be done online!

Order your flower bulbs now for spring planting and enjoy beautiful flowers this summer!

Please consider purchasing and planting a flower in memory of project leader Kristin's daughter Hailey or someone else you know.

Visit the Flowers of Hope campaign website by clicking here and place your order now!

If you have questions, please email: Kristin@projectsweetpeas.com.

Project Sweet Peas' Polar Plunge!

2011-01-10T16:41:00.000-06:00

Are you ready for another Polar Plunge?!

If the Polar Plunge hosted by Shelby's Sunshine peeked your interest back around Thanksgiving, we're excited to tell you about another upcoming opportunity to take 'the plunge' and support Project Sweet Peas!

Co-founder of Project Sweet Peas and project leader of Gabriel's Gift, Corin, has organized a Polar Plunge event for Project Sweet Peas in Rhode Island!

The event will take place on February 19, 2011. Tickets are on sale now! They can be purchased in advance online or in person at the door on the day of the event.

There will be more than just plunging into icy waters! There also will be a Post Plunge Party at Galilee Restaurant with buffet style dinner, live music, raffles, prizes and more!

If you live in the area, please consider taking 'the plunge' and supporting Project Sweet Peas!

For more information and to purchase tickets please visit our event website: http://pspplunge.com

Sweet Christmas Hope

2011-01-03T16:32:00.000-06:00

What is Hope? Hope is a belief in a positive outcome related to events and circumstances in one's life. All of the project leaders with Project Sweet Peas have hope. They all believe that the circumstances in their lives will lead to positive outcomes. Some spend countless hours sitting at the bedside of their newborn, some cheered after a gram was gained, some never knew their babies past pregnancy, and some, will never know their children beyond the precious moments frozen in their memories forever. No matter what the circumstance that lead us to find each other, we all have lost one thing, normalcy, the normalcy of pregnancy, child birth and having a newborn. While we all have lost, we all have gained one thing also, hope. We believe that all of the events in our lives, no matter how tragic, will have a positive outcome. Project Sweet Peas helps offer families hope. Through giving and receiving, we give hope in knowing, they are not alone.

It is hard to have hope while your baby is in the NICU, or has just died, but, more so when it is the holiday season. While we strive to try to bring comfort to families year round, we wanted to give them more this season: hope. This Christmas, we delivered 385 teddy bears, Santa hats, stockings, snowmen, Ornaments, name tags, blankets and so much more to NICU’s. We provided over 100 care packages in the month of December.

Project leader, Megan Skaggs, who delivers to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas, was so thankful to have her family with her as the Social worker went straight up to the NICU to give the babies the teddy bears she delivered. Project Leader, Theresa Wellman, who delivers to Comer Children's Hospital at the University of Chicago, could only say her delivery was “absolutely amazing and fulfilling”. The staff was so thankful for her delivery because the parents were so grateful for their gifts. Project Leader, Kate Crawford, who delivers to Magee-Women's and Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh, was able to deliver on her son’s one year anniversary of being discharged from the NICU on December 23rd, which was such a special experience for her.

As always, we thank you for your continued support. Without you, we would not be able to bring hope to so many families.

Hailey's Hope Birthday Delivery

2010-12-05T20:58:00.008-06:00

We're excited to tell you about a recent special delivery made by local project, Hailey's Hope, which currently serves The Children's Hospital at The University of Alabama at Birmingham.

As a bereaved parent, Kristin, project leader of Hailey's Hope, worried about her daughter's first birthday. She wanted to make sure the day was one of celebrating her daughter's life and a reason for joy instead of a day full of grief. To help make this happen, Kristin set a goal that Hailey's Hope would make a very special delivery on Hailey's birthday to the NICU where Hailey stayed.

This fall Hailey's Hope had been holding item drives and doing other small local fundraisers so that the project could deliver its goal of 50 basic NICU bags and 10 memory boxes on Hailey's 1st birthday, December 1, 2010. After several successful fundraisers and receiving overwhelming support and donations, Hailey's Hope reached its goal and had enough extras to have a great start for its donations in 2011!

On December 1, Hailey's birthday, Hailey's Hope delivered its 50 bags and 10 memory boxes to The Children's Hospital. This was the second delivery for Hailey's Hope, and this delivery Kristin was able to go to the NICU and talk with several of the NICU nurses. The nurses were all overjoyed about the donations and expressed how grateful the families were who had received bags from the first round of donations that Hailey's Hope donated back in June. They were extremely thankful to have more bags to give to more families, especially during this difficult time of year, and are already looking forward to the next time Hailey's Hope can donate more bags.

Overall, the delivery was quite the success for Hailey's Hope and Kristin. Kristin felt her daughter's birthday was celebrated the best way it could have been and is extremely grateful for everyone who helped make it possible.

Here are a few pictures from the delivery (to see more pictures from the delivery and to stay updated on the latest new for Hailey's Hope please visit the project's Facebook page:

Shelby's Sunshine Polar Plunge

2010-12-05T20:20:00.008-06:00

On November 28, 2010, Shelby's Sunshine hosted a Polar Plunge fundraiser at their local Moose Lodge in Indiana.

Tickets were sold for $20 each and enabled participants to take 'the plunge' and receive a Shelby's Sunshine t-shirt. All proceeds from the event went towards purchasing items to fill gift bags for families with a child in the NICU.

We are happy to share that this event turned out to be a HUGE success!

There were 16 people who dared to jump in the lake waist deep and take the plunge into frigid waters, and many spectators came out to watch!

Shelby's Sunshine had many people make additional donations, purchase raffle tickets for the 7 raffles, and buy polar plunge polar bears.

Because of the event and the support, project leader Stephanie was able to raise over $1000 that day for Shelby's Sunshine!

From Stephanie:
We are so very thankful to so many people, companies, friends, and family.
Christy--Thanks so much for the basket!! It was a huge hit!
Kate--Thanks for the raffle prize and for making the trip.....It means so much to my family. Corin--Thanks for all the help with the fliers, wavier and all you did to support this event. Thanks to all who supported this event via Facebook, supporting us with your words.

To see more pictures from the event and to stay updated with Shelby's Sunshine, please visit the project's Facebook page.

Stephen's Stroller Roll & More Deliveries!

2010-11-22T19:05:00.006-06:00

Kate, project leader of Shannon's Star in Pennsylvania, has a wonderful event going on benefiting the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh in honor of her son's (Stephen's) first birthday:

If you're interested in participating please contact Kate by emailing her at: Kate@projectsweetpeas.com.

We'd also like to share that Kate and Shannon's Star recently delivered 32 NICU bags and 120 name tags to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and Magee Women's. The name tags were leaves hung by ribbons so the nurses could put the babies' names on them. They were delivered just in time for Thanksgiving!

2 Projects Make the News!

2010-11-18T21:25:00.007-06:00

On Wednesday, November 10th, local project Ava's Angels located in Minnesota made the local news!

An article appearing in the Sun Newspapers shares about project leader's, Lisa's, experiences with her daughter Ava, and shares about the local branch of Project Sweet Peas Lisa started in her memory.

To read the entire feature written about Ava's Angels please visit the story here.

Local project Hailey's Hope located in Alabama also made the local news in Illinois, where project leader Kristin is originally from.

The articles share about Kristin's experiences with her daughter Hailey and explain about Hailey's Hope. The articles came as a result of the school where Kristin used to teach at taking the initiative to bring the school district and community together to show their support for Kristin and Hailey's Hope by raising money and holding an item drive for Hailey's Hope's delivery coming up on Hailey's first birthday on December 1st.

The articles are not available online but can be read below (for better viewing click on the picture to enlarge).

We are so proud of all our local projects and so thrilled to be spreading the word and raising awareness about our cause!

Pepsi Commercial Featuring PSP!

2010-11-12T10:04:00.004-06:00

Hey everyone!

Back in July Pepsi shot a commercial for the Pepsi Refresh Project featuring Project Sweet Peas. It originally aired on a local channel in Texas. We recently got a hold of the file and wanted to share it with you!

The video features project leader Megan of MJ's Memories and was shot at their local hospital, Stormont Vail. We'd like to add that MJ Memories delivered over 30 bags that day!

Shelby's Sunshine Recent Delivery!

2010-11-10T18:04:00.005-06:00

On October 29th local project Shelby's Sunshine delivered 70 bags to a NICU in Indianapolis, Indiana!

Project leader and mom of Shelby wrote this:

This was a wonderful delivery. We feel truly blessed to be able to help families with babies in the NICU. We were there with Shelby and understand the feeling of hopelessness. It is our time to give back, and it is such a great feeling.

Stephanie

Here are a few of the photos Stephanie shared from this amazing delivery!

Above: Shelby with the 70 bags!

Above: Shelby along with her mom and project leader Stephanie and the other girls

Shannon's Star Silpada Jewelry Fundraiser

2010-10-26T16:02:00.001-05:00

Project Shannon’s Star in Pittsburgh, is having a Silpada jewelry fundraiser!

Now until November 13th 20% of retail sales (before tax and shipping) will be donated to Shannon’s Star.

You can view the online catalog at http://mysilpada.com/sites/linda.thomas1/private/content/home.jsf .

Please e-mail Linda (lthomasrdh@yahoo.com) your order and let her know you are ordering through the Project Sweet Peas fundraiser.

Each and every piece of Silpada Designs jewelry is one of a kind. Silpada artisans meticulously handcraft each piece and incorporate the absolute finest .925 Sterling Silver. Their use of spectacular semiprecious gemstones, natural materials and eclectic designs is what makes Silpada Designs' line of handcrafted jewelry truly exceptional. All Silpada Designs jewelry is backed by a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects – NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR.

Christmas is right around the corner! Buy a gift for someone you know and help support Shannon's Star!

1,000th Bag Delivered!

2010-10-25T13:55:00.004-05:00

Project Sweet Peas has had a little contest going on our Facebook page to see who could guess when we would reach 1,000 gift bags delivered.

Well, WE DID IT!!

On October 15th, project leader Megan Skaggs of MJ's Memories delivered our 1,000th gift bag!

The winner of the contest was Brett Baer, who guessed October 14th! Congratulations Brett on your new Project Sweet Peas water bottle!

Kiernan's Kindness Candle Memorial

2010-10-19T14:12:00.008-05:00

We would like to share about another special event held on this past Friday in honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day: Kiernan's Kindness Candle Memorial.

On October 15th Kiernan's Kindness lit candles to remember those "gone to soon but not forgotten."

While Kiernan's Kindness's project leader, Julie, originally planned to join the PSP balloon release, she was unable to due to unforeseen circumstances; however, Julie still wanted to honor the angels and pushed on doing her own memorial.

Several candles were lit each bearing the name of an infant or a special name of a pregnancy that ended too soon. Each name was handwritten and included a single heart if representing one baby lost or two hearts if representing a pair of twins lost. Each candle was photographed separately and then beautifully put together to form a pair of angel wings.

Julie wanted the families to know they are all loved and that their special angels got to help in making a special memorial for their families.

There were also candles lit bearing a cause of pregnancy or infant loss to represent those who were not able to be named.

More pictures can be found in an album on the Project Sweet Peas Facebok Page and on the Kiernan's Kindness page on Facebook. Please feel free to tag yourself, friends, and family. Please enjoy the keepsake video montage featured below and know that your angels were remembered in many ways.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

1st Annual Memorial Balloon Release

2010-10-18T19:59:00.005-05:00

This past weekend Project Sweet Peas held our 1st Annual Memorial Balloon Release in honor of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day, October 15th.

We wanted to honor babies lost by writing their names on balloons, releasing the balloons in remembrance of them, and photographing the balloons. Through our Facebook Page Event Wall, emails, and personal contacts, families from across the country submitted their babies' names to be remembered in our release.

On October 10th we began compiling all the names submitted to us onto one list and then divided the names up amongst the participating projects. We had seven of our local project leaders volunteer to host releases where they lived and take pictures of each balloon released in remembrance of the babies on their list.

Project Sweet Peas is extremely honored to share with you that we had over 400 names submitted and remembered in our release! Therefore, we believe that Project Sweet Peas had the country's largest Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day balloon release this year, and maybe ever!

Project leaders who held the balloon releases have been working all weekend to upload pictures of the balloons to albums on our Facebook Page where people are invited to tag themselves in the picture of their baby's balloon. To find the albums from the balloon releases please view this link to our Project Sweet Peas Facebook Photo Albums. There are several albums, and we hope to have all of the pictures uploaded by tonight at the latest.

Thank you to everyone who submitted their baby's name, participated, helped, and supported our 1st Annual Memorial Balloon Release. Project Sweet Peas is honored to have had the opportunity to help you remember your baby in this way.

Project Sweet Peas is a Registered Non-Profit Organization!

2010-10-11T12:38:00.003-05:00

We have some big news that we are so excited to share with you today! We have officially become Incorporated in the state of Pennsylvania where our headquarters is located!

This means Project Sweet Peas is now an Incorporated Non-Profit Organization!

However, we still DO NOT have tax exempt status; therefore, donations are NOT tax deductible until we have our status approved. Our lawyer is still in the process of filling out and submitting that paperwork in the next couple of weeks.

What this means for the status of Project Sweet Peas as an organization: Project Sweet Peas is a REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT IS WAITING ON APPROVAL FOR OUR 501c3 TAX EXEMPT STATUS.

We will update you as soon as the remainder of our paperwork is completed, and we have our official 501c3 tax exempt status.

We are extremely excited to be making progress on this. Becoming a registered NPO and receiving our 501c3 tax exempt status will be a huge benefit for Project Sweet Peas and will open many new doors for us to expand as an organization, which ultimately will help us help many more families in need.

Reminder to "Craft for a Cause"

2010-10-06T11:43:00.002-05:00

We wanted to remind everyone about Craft for Cause ~ 24 days left!

Here's all the information you need to know:

Do you like to sew or craft? You can win $1500 and help Project Sweet Peas win $50,000!

Here's how:

1. Buy your supplies from Jo-Ann Fabrics (save your receipts!!) - find a store near you!

2. Make your items and take a few fun pictures of them

3. Upload them to the Craft for a Cause site at http://www.joann.com/joann/common/content_noleftnav.jsp?catName=craftForaCause

4. In the -Or- Box type "Project Sweet Peas"

5. Donate your items to any of our 15 local projects

6. Wait and see if you are chosen as a $1500 winner

7. VOTE for Project Sweet Peas to win $50,000!!

Contest Dates

Crafting contest begins August 15, 2010 and ends October 30, 2010

Charity voting ends December 4, 2010

Crafters — Enter to Win $1,500 Gift Card

Using materials purchased from Jo-Ann make and donate useful crafted items to your favorite charitable organization. Experience the satisfaction of giving! Submit photo of each donation — crafted items will be judged for prizes! The makers of the top five* crafted items will each win a $1,500 Jo-Ann gift card.

*Judged on creativity, quality & functionality for the charitable organization receiving item. Open to legal U.S. residents age 14 or older. Void in Maryland & Vermont.

Jo-Ann Donates a Total of $90,000 to Three Causes

The three charitable organizations receiving the most donated items become Craft for a Cause finalists. Then you can join other crafters and go online to vote for your favorite among these three.

Please let any of our Board of Directors know if you have any questions!

Kate@projectsweetpeas.com

Corin@projectsweetpeas.com

Stephanie@projectsweetpeas.com

Megan@projectsweetpeas.com

Christy@projectsweetpeas.com

NICU Hallowboo Fundraiser for Shannon's Stars

2010-09-26T10:46:00.002-05:00

A donation of $6.00 will allow Shannon's Stars to buy 24 Halloween themed named tags for Magee-Women's NICU.

October 17th is the deadline for donating.

For more information email Kate@projectsweetpeas.com

PSP Water Bottles for Sale!

2010-09-21T16:18:00.003-05:00

Are you thirsty? Would you like to support Project Sweet Peas?

Two of our local projects, MJ's Memories and Shelby's Sunshine, have special Project Sweet Peas water bottles for sale!

The PSP water bottles are $3 each or $4 with shipping for each. All proceeds will benefit their local projects.

If you would like to place an order or want more details, please contact Megan, project leader of MJ's Memories: Megan@ProjectSweetPeas.com OR Stephanie, project leader of Shelby's Sunshine: Stephanie@ProjectSweetPeas.com.

Also, Megan is doing a special promotion for MJ's Memories: For anyone looking to make a donation to MJ's Memories, you will be given a FREE water bottle as a thank you!

Donny's Shining Light Shares News and Makes the News!

2010-09-20T13:55:00.003-05:00

We are pleased to update you on the latest exciting happenings for Project Sweet Peas local project Donny's Shining Light in Illinois.

For our first bit of news, back in July we updated you on a fundraiser yard sale for Donny's Shining Light (you can read that post here), and we also mentioned that Theresa , the project leader of Donny's Shining Light, was going to host another yard sale fundraiser in September.

Well she did, and she is thrilled to report that her second fundraiser was another success! Theresa raised $600 for Donny's Shining Light thanks to both yard sales.

Theresa said, "I will be trying hard to budget this money as wisely as possible so I can get as much as possible from it!"

~

For our second bit of news, we are so proud and excited to share that Chicago's Daily Herald reported on Donny's Shining Light. Today they published the wonderful article they wrote called "Project Sweet Peas leaders donate to keep son's memory alive," and you can read it online here.

~

And last but not least, Theresa's next fundraiser event is in the works; it's called "Decorate the Tree" for Donny's Shining Light. Details to come later so stay tuned!

Ava's Angels Delivers 50 Bags!

2010-09-12T11:02:00.008-05:00

We are thrilled to share the latest gift bag delivery made by one of our local projects, Ava's Angels. Ava's Angels is in Minnesota and is led by Lisa, Ava's mom.

This past Wednesday, September 8, 2010, Ava's Angels delivered an amazing 50 gift bags to the Ronald McDonald House in Minneapolis!!

Lisa was thankful to donate Ava's Angel's bags to the Ronald McDonald House "since the people the bags will be going to have all been uprooted from their homes (often times from another state) in addition to having their baby in the NICU."

For more information visit Ava's Angel's webpage or email Lisa at: Lisa@projectsweetpeas.com.

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Balloon Release

2010-09-10T16:04:00.007-05:00

Project Sweet Peas will be honoring angel babies on Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day, October 15th, with a memorial balloon release.

If you would like an angel to be included in our balloon release here is what you need to do:

Write the child's name or loving nickname (such as "Sweet Pea" or "Baby Jones") on the Facebook Event Page Wall.

OR

Send an email with the baby's name and the subject "Oct 15th" to info@projectsweetpeas.com.

All submissions must be made by October 10th.

Participating project leaders will take part of the list of names submitted and write the names on balloons which will be photographed and released on October 15th in memory of all infants lost.

Photographs of the balloons will be published on our Facebook page, and you will be able to tag the picture of your child's balloon if you'd like. If you do not have a Facebook account and would like the photograph emailed to you, please email us and let us know.

If you have any questions please email: info@projectsweetpeas.com.

Welcome Jordon's Journey!

2010-09-10T15:45:00.003-05:00

We have another very exciting new local project in Jordon's Journey that we would like to welcome! Lisa Arndt is Jordon's mom and the project leader of Jordon's Journey, which donates bags in Missouri.

For more information on Jordan's Journey, please email Lisa at LisaArndt@projectsweetpeas.com.

Here is Jordon's Story . . .

Hello, My name is Lisa and I would like to share Jordon's Journey with you.

My husband Jim and I got married in September 1994. We knew that we wanted to start having children right away and in May of 1995 we got the exciting news that I was pregnant. But, at that time I was already 3 months along and losing a lot of weight. My doctor put me on bed rest and within the next 3 months we were over joyed to find out we were having a boy, and right away we decided on the name Jordon Tyler.

In late August I went to my doctor for my monthly checkup. I had lost 60 pounds in the last few months. He was worried about Jordon's weight so he sent me to the hospital for a ultrasound at which point they saw that I had lost all my placenta. The doctor admitted me to the hospital to be monitored and steroids pumped in me to build up Jordon's lungs. A couple of days later the nurses saw Jordon's heart rate dropping, she called the doctor and right away. Within minutes I was rushed into the operating room for a emergency c-section. With my husband by my side and my parents in the hallway waiting, little Jordon Tyler was born on September 4th, 1995. I was just a few days away from being 7 months along. Jordon let out a little cry, and he was taken to the NICU with my husband by his side. Later that night I was wheeled down to the NICU to see my baby. He weighed 1 pound 10oz and was 12 1/2 inches long. He was hooked up to all of these machines to monitor him and help him breathe. I was in shock; the NICU was such a scary place to me as I had never seen anything like it before. Jim and I felt so alone and could have never image something so small and fragile.

The next few weeks Jordon continued to be a fighter, he was gaining weight slowly but surely and was off the oxygen and able to be in room air. The doctors were very hopeful that Jordon was going to gain weight and pull through and make it. His only issues were that he was born so early that he would have developmental problems, but soon would catch up with children his age.

After 2 months and 18 days in the NICU, Jordon weighed 4 pounds and 7oz and was released from the hospital with a heart monitor the day before Thanksgiving. We were ecstatic and took him shopping for his first train set to put under the Christmas tree. We spent Thanksgiving day with family and friends and finally being able to be our little family of 3.

Those first two nights we kept him in our bedroom in the bassinet at night and the day after Thanksgiving he woke to be fed. As I held him in my arms that early morning his heart monitor went off, and he was gone. My husband did CPR while I called the ambulance. After they came and rushed him to nearest hospital, an hour later the doctor came into this little room and told us, "I'm sorry there was nothing we could do." They let us in the room with him, and we sat and held him and cried. Later after the autopsy we found out that he was missing the left pulmonary artery to his heart and that his kidneys and liver were damaged.

He is now our angel and watches over us everyday. He is dearly missed, and I hope Project Sweet Peas will help to honor his memory.

MJ's Memories Delivers in Memory of MJ's Angel Day

2010-09-08T11:33:00.005-05:00

Project Sweet Peas is so happy to share about another delivery made by local project MJ's Memories!

Megan, project leader, made the special delivery on Labor Day with her husband and MJ's twin brother Will to Children's Mercy Hospital in Missouri (this hospital is where MJ lived and passed away). The delivery was made in memory of MJ's "Angel Day." MJ lived from July 25, 2009 - August 29, 2009. To read more about his story and their local project click here.

Their delivery included 18 basic NICU bags (the hospital was only in need of 18 since they had bags left over from the last delivery by MJ's Memories). They also did a special delivery of 35 Angel/memory boxes, one for each day MJ lived.

Here is a picture of some of the bags and boxes that were delivered:

Megan said, "The delivery went great, and we were so happy to be able to donate those items for MJ's Angel Day. It was hard walking back in there, as it always is, but we are very thankful to be able to do this."

Here is a picture of Megan, her husband, and MJ's twin brother, Will making their special delivery:

About 6 weeks ago, Megan brought in two example memory boxes to the hospital to make sure that everything in them was going to be okay to donate. When she returned she was told that they had given out both memory boxes in the past six weeks. One of the chaplains who gave one of them out told Megan that the family was so thankful to have it, and they started using everything in it right away!

Stories like this make everything we do that much more special.

In the News, Watch Online

2010-09-08T11:22:00.003-05:00

In case you missed the recent, live news coverages of two of our local projects, you can view them online!

To view the official news clip of Shannon's Star please visit the following link:

'Sweet Peas' Offer Comfort To Parents - Video - WTAE Pittsburgh

To view the unofficial news clip of Drake's Doodlebugs please visit the following link:

"My Montage 9/1/10"

Shannon's Star Delivers & Makes the News!

2010-09-02T20:03:00.004-05:00

**UPDATE POSTED FRIDAY SEPT. 3RD: THE SEGMENT WILL NOT AIR TODAY; INSTEAD IT WILL AIR TOMORROW, SAT. SEPT. 4TH DURING EVERY NEWSCAST - SO TUNE IN TOMORROW! THANKS!**

Exciting things are happening for Shannon's Star, our local Project Sweet Peas project in Pennsylvania!

Kate, the project leader of Shannon's Star, made a wonderful delivery today to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Shannon's Star donated 30 bags, 7 memory boxes, and 7 handmade mobiles.

And that's not all!

A local news station anchor read about Project Sweet Peas winning the Pepsi Refresh grant and being on GMA. The news anchor found Kate through Facebook and shared that she also knows what it's like to have a child in an intensive care unit. She was deeply touched by Project Sweet Peas' mission and was so pleased to do a story on us.

The news story covering the latest delivery made by Shannon's Star will air tomorrow (Friday, September 3, 2010) during the news at 5pm on WTAE channel 4. Be sure to tune in if you live in the area!

*As soon as the news stories about Shannon's Star and Drake's Doodlebugs are made available for viewing online we will share the links with you.

Benefit Concert for Nimkee Blessings

2010-09-01T10:33:00.005-05:00

Project Sweet Peas would like to share a very special event with you coming up this weekend. Melissa and her PSP project Nimkee Blessings and Melissa's son's band Introducing Bennett are co-hosting the event. Nimkee Blessings serves the Sick Kids Hospital NICU in Toronto, Ontario. Here is everything you need to know:

WHO: **~NIMKEE BLESSINGS & INTRODUCING BENNETT~**

WHAT: Benefit Concert

WHEN: Sunday, September 5th, 2p-10p

WHERE: Gordon's Park (18777 Hwy 6), Tehkummah, Manitoulin Island

WHAT: We will have lots of great entertainment for young and old alike, & fun things for the kiddies to do! ALL PROCEEDS go to helping families with babies in the SICK KIDS HOSPITAL NICU in Toronto, Ontario.

ADMISSION:
$10 for ages 15+
$5 for children 5-15
FREE for children 4 & under

FEATURING:
2-2:30 Introducing Bennett (Brendan, Pete, Jason, Tedd)
2:30-3 Tedd Jensen
3-4 Pat Peltier
4-4:30 Leslie Neshkiwe
4:30-5:30 Dave Southwood & Darren Madahbee
5:30-6 Digger Wyman
6-7 Brand New Eyes (Brendan, Jason, Cindy, Justin, Matt)
7-7:30 Damien Thibodeau
7:30-8 CJ, Brendan, and probably Jason!
8-9 Low Guns (Luke Sellen & Dwayne Trudeau)
9-9:30 CRYPT (Michael Stevenson)
9:30-10 Introducing Bennett (Brendan, Pete, Jason, Tedd)

CHILDREN'S ACTIVITIES:
Magician, face painting, rock painting--make something for the garden, colouring & drawing station, playground, bubbles, (for a park fee) mini-putt, heated swimming pool WITH ADULT SUPERVISION for anyone under 16, Nimkee Blessings corn roast, BBQ with funds going to The Manitoulin Islanders---come on out and support your local team, and bake table!

Local news to cover Drake's Doodlebugs & PSP!

2010-08-30T14:39:00.004-05:00

Drake's Doodlebugs, our local Project Sweet Peas project led by Christy, which serves Ochsner Medical Center Saint Tammany Hospital in Louisiana, is going to be on TV tomorrow!

The local news station, WWL-TV channel 4, is featuring Drake's Doodlebugs with Project Sweet Peas on their segment "Quiet Heroes!"

The feature will be broadcast live tomorrow, Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 5pm CST. You can tune in live online by viewing the stations website here and clicking on "Watch Live Newscasts" at the top or you can click here for the direct link to watch live at 5pm.

We are so excited! Be sure to tune in if you can!

Craft for Project Sweet Peas & Win $1500!

2010-08-27T10:07:00.003-05:00

Do you like to sew or craft? You can win $1500 and help Project Sweet Peas win $50,000!

Here's how:

1. Buy your supplies from Jo-Ann Fabrics (save your receipts!!) - find a store near you!

2. Make your items and take a few fun pictures of them

3. Upload them to the Craft for a Cause site at http://www.joann.com/joann/common/content_noleftnav.jsp?catName=craftForaCause

4. In the -Or- Box type "Project Sweet Peas"

5. Donate your items to any of our 15 local projects

6. Wait and see if you are chosen as a $1500 winner

7. VOTE for Project Sweet Peas to win $50,000!!

Contest Dates

Crafting contest begins August 15, 2010 and ends October 30, 2010

Charity voting ends December 4, 2010

Crafters — Enter to Win $1,500 Gift Card

*Judged on creativity, quality & functionality for the charitable organization receiving item. Open to legal U.S. residents age 14 or older. Void in Maryland & Vermont.

Jo-Ann Donates a Total of $90,000 to Three Causes

The three charitable organizations receiving the most donated items become Craft for a Cause finalists. Then you can join other crafters and go online to vote for your favorite among these three.

Please let any of our Board of Directors know if you have any questions!

Kate@projectsweetpeas.com

Corin@projectsweetpeas.com

Stephanie@projectsweetpeas.com

Megan@projectsweetpeas.com

Christy@projectsweetpeas.com

Thank You Name Your Wish Images!

2010-08-25T15:49:00.004-05:00

Recently Project Sweet Peas received the wonderful gift of a beautiful photograph with our name on it!

Here is the extremely creative and wonderful picture made for us by Name Your Wish Images:

Don't you just adore it?!

From all of us at Project Sweet Peas, thank you so much Name Your Wish Images! Your talent and artistry is amazing!

If you'd like to learn more about Name Your Wish Images please visit their website.

Kiernan's Kindness - 1st Annual Frog Race to Christmas

2010-08-20T14:28:00.003-05:00

Project leaders of Kiernan's Kindness, Julie and Danielle, have been wanting to start an annual fundraiser for their local project of Project Sweet Peas for some time now, and they are excited to share the great idea they have come up with:

"Kiernan's Kindness ~ 1st Annual Frog Race to Christmas"

The event begins today, August 20th, which just so happens to be Kiernan's birthday, and will run through October 1st.

Kiernan's Kindess will be collecting frogs as well as donations to fill bags to be delivered on December 1st for the holiday babies. Frogs are the official symbol of Kiernan's Kindness so frogs in the form of stuffed animals or on fabric or even clothes would be wonderful!

Any donations will be accepted. There is also a PayPal account set up to help make donating easier. Remember to include an address in a message if using PayPal.

Please email julie@projectsweetpeas.com or danielle@projectsweetpeas.com for further information and to get the address or PayPal name to send your frogs or donations to.

Let's hop to it and bring some holiday spirit and joy to the families spending Christmas in the NICU!

100 "Sweet Dreams" for Project Sweet Peas

2010-08-19T10:40:00.003-05:00

Operation Sweet Dreams is a fellow Pepsi grant recipient. The goal of this organization, headed by Cynthia Delgadillo, is to provide new pajamas, toothbrushes, and books to local needy children and ultimately make a difference in the community.

Recently, Operation Sweet Dreams generously decided to help Project Sweet Peas by using a portion of their Pepsi grant winnings to donate 100 baby jammies to us! These pajamas, adorably packaged as cupcakes, will be included in our PSP bags that will be delivered to families and babies in need.

To learn more about this amazing project visit their website.

You can read more about them on the Pepsi Refresh Project website. To see the picture and brief write up about their awesome donation to PSP click here.

From all of us at Project Sweet Peas,
THANK YOU OPERATION SWEET DREAMS!!
Your thoughtful donation means so much to us and is greatly appreciate!

Visit Our Online Shops!

2010-08-04T10:37:00.007-05:00

Do you love to shop? Would you like to be able to shop and support Project Sweet Peas at the same time?

Well you can! Project Sweet Peas has an online store where you can buy items with the PSP logo like t-shirts, hoodies, ornaments, journals, coffee mugs, water bottles, and more. Check out our store here today! All proceeds support the general Project Sweet Peas fund.

Did you also know that several local projects make and sell their own items online?

Currently we have 3 local project stores. All local project stores are run separatly by individual project leaders. All proceeds from these stores go directly to the local gift bag project.

Gabriel's Gift (New England) has an online store that sells handmade flannel burp clothes and more. You can visit this project's store here.

Hailey's Hope (Alabama) has an online store that sells flower headbands for babies called Blossoms of Blessings. You can visit the website here.

MJ's Memories (Kansas/Missouri) has an online store that sells beautiful handmade bracelets called MJ's Awareness. You view the items here.