Emily Blackwell Shares Her Journey Through NICU Challenges And The Miracle Of Early Motherhood

Everyone (understandably) adores celebrating those miraculous babies who seem to defy the odds. Yet, amidst the sweetness of tiny fingers clasped around a parent’s, have we paused to consider the NICU mum—the silent warrior in this journey? The glowing social media snapshots showcase first cuddles and milestone moments, but seldom do they tell the deeper tale. Behind every photo lies a myriad of sleepless nights, overwhelming worries, and an emotional burden heavier than anyone could anticipate. For every NICU triumph, there’s a mum whose fierce battle often remains unseen, a story that doesn’t truly close at discharge but rather, continues long after leaving the hospital.

In a candid interview for Maternal Mental Health Week—a time dedicated to amplifying voices and recognizing strength—Emily Blackwell, a star from *Made in Chelsea*, reflected on the arduous 53 days she and her daughter, Eva, spent in the NICU. This period was undeniably one of the hardest chapters of her life, but she’s taken the brave step to share the part of the story that often stays hidden.

The Day Everything Changed

Emily’s life took an unexpected turn on Halloween, but not in the way she had imagined as a mother-to-be. At just 29 weeks pregnant, she found herself at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital due to a small bleed. Initially, everything looked normal; the baby’s heartbeat was strong, and she wasn’t feeling contractions. However, a cervical check revealed troubling signs, prompting doctors to keep her under observation for a full day.

“I was feeling fine,” Emily shares. “There was no pain, just the baby moving around like usual.” Just as she was preparing to head home, she casually mentioned the backache that had begun—a minor discomfort. Little did she know, that simple mention would send shockwaves through her day.

The backache soon intensified, shifting its discomfort to the front. She initially dismissed it as typical Braxton Hicks contractions, convincing herself, “If I can sleep through it, it can’t be real labor.” The next morning, however, the pain escalated. After taking a painkiller, she called the hospital only to discover she was already 3 cm dilated.

Things escalated quickly. Doctors administered steroids to support the development of her baby’s lungs, as well as magnesium to aid brain development. They advised her that labor could potentially take hours, maybe even days—but Emily knew something was different.

“I just knew she was coming,” she recalls, and two hours later, Eva arrived.

There was no time for pain relief; everything happened in a whirlwind. When baby Eva emerged, she let out a cry, and the neonatal team was poised and ready. “Though there was a flurry of activity, I thought to myself, ‘You’re going to be fine,’” Emily reflected.

Emily admitted she hadn’t anticipated this moment; she hadn’t even attended antenatal classes or had her baby shower yet. “I told the midwife, ‘I have no clue what I’m doing,’ and she simply replied, ‘Don’t worry, I’ll show you how to push.’ Somehow, I managed.”

What No One Tells You About Premature Birth

With Eva’s birth, Emily faced a new and bewildering reality. In mere hours, she transitioned from expecting a typical pregnancy to navigating the complexities of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Eva was born over 10 weeks early, and like 85% of women who experience premature birth, Emily was left without an explanation.

Despite medical advancements, many preterm births still happen unexpectedly. As reported by Borne, a UK medical research charity, the strides in treatments have been stagnant for decades, emphasizing a glaring need for more investment in making childbirth safer.

“My pregnancy had been low-risk; I was healthy and active. The sudden turn of events was shocking. They ran tests and everything came back clear. That uncertainty weighed on me heavily,” she confessed.

The only hint at what might have contributed to her early labor was a severe bout of flu. “I was coughing so hard it hurt my stomach and back,” Emily recalled. “When I mentioned I thought it might have triggered labor, the doctors laughed it off, but I still wonder about that.”

What Emily became acutely aware of was the importance of trusting her instincts. “That intuition is a powerful thing. Looking back, I’m grateful I went back to the hospital,” she said.

53 Days in NICU: Finding Strength in Survival

Reflecting on her 53 days in the NICU, Emily admits, “Nothing prepares you for that experience. It’s incredibly tough to articulate unless you’ve walked that path. But somehow, amidst the chaos, I discovered a strength I never knew I possessed.”

For her, the NICU felt like a foreign planet—a bustling environment with a constant symphony of alarms and beeping machines. “You’re not cloistered in a serene room; it’s a shared space filled with fragile lives, and even when those alarms aren’t for your child, they hit hard.” This relentless backdrop took a significant emotional toll. “People rarely speak about that level of stress and uncertainty,” she pointed out.

Day by day, it turned into a mission of survival. “You just focus on getting through it,” Emily said, emphasizing how essential rest and self-care became during that time. “You must be strong and healthy for your baby. And remember, don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s; each baby is unique.”

A moment of wisdom from a NICU nurse resonated with her: “Trust her; she’s a little fighter.” That piece of encouragement echoed in Emily’s heart as she navigated the ups and downs of the NICU.

Throughout this journey, Emily’s partner, Jordan Oldershaw, stood unwaveringly by her side, providing vital support and comfort.

On Quiet Moments and a New Rhythm of Motherhood

Bringing Eva home marked the start of an entirely different learning curve.

“Everyone warned me about the ‘newborn trenches’ and how overwhelming it would be. But when I finally had Eva at home, my body felt an inexplicable sense of calm. Yes, I was nervous about the lack of nurses and doctors, but in my heart, I felt relief—we were finally together.”

Emily’s story is one of resilience, courage, and an unwavering love that defied the odds. As she continues her journey, she sheds light on the intricacies of motherhood that are often overlooked, urging us to recognize not just the miracle of life but the battles fought by those who bring them into the world.Emily’s enthusiasm is palpable when she reflects on her favorite part of the day: the mornings. “It has to be when she wakes up and gives me a big smile. Even if she’s kept me up four times during the night, that smile makes it all worth it,” she beams.

In the early days of motherhood, structure often takes a back seat. With her daughter Eva currently on her corrected age of just three months, their days revolve around the essentials—the comforting rhythm of feeding, napping, and playful moments. For Emily, it’s not just about the routine; it’s about the bond they’re creating.

“And what gets me through those tough days?” she muses. “It’s her, honestly. She’s the fuel that keeps me going because she’s so amazing—so clever, so alert. She truly is a little miracle.”

The Real Transition: Life After NICU

For Emily, the biggest hurdle wasn’t just the challenges of the NICU or the intensity of labor—it was the adjustment to motherhood that really shook her world. She describes this transition as a total life shift, noting how dramatic everything feels: your routine, your relationship, even your sense of identity. “People can tell you how it will be, but you just don’t understand until you’re living it,” she explains. “The hardest part is that everything shifts—you just start to define yourself through your baby.”

Her partner Jordan stepped up like a champion under pressure, juggling the roles of caregiver, father, and business owner. “Honestly, if we made it through everything we have, I’m convinced we can handle anything life throws our way,” she says with newfound confidence. This shared struggle forged a deeper connection between them. “We’ve both gained a whole new level of respect for each other,” she adds, reflecting on how Jordan now truly grasps the sacrifices mothers make: “He sees all that we give up—our bodies, our careers, our lives.”

Yet, some things have had to take a backseat. “We don’t really go on date nights anymore,” Emily admits with a chuckle. “It’s not just about us anymore. It’s about Eva, and that requires a lot of adjusting.”

But she remains optimistic. “Once she’s a bit older, we will definitely find that time for ourselves again. I think it’s really important to maintain those date nights and weekends away, just for the two of us.”

Carving Out Me-Time: Finding Balance as a New Mum

Navigating postpartum life can be tough, and Emily is refreshingly candid about the impact it has had on her self-esteem and sense of identity. “You just don’t feel like yourself,” she says. “Your hair falls out, your body changes, nothing feels the same.” Acknowledging how draining motherhood can be, she also highlights the importance of self-care. “Even a little pampering can really rejuvenate you,” she adds.

For Emily, those small rituals serve as lifelines back to who she was before becoming a mom. “Whatever makes you feel good, do it,” she encourages. “Whether it’s an hour massage, a blow-dry, or whatever else makes you happy. As a mom, you often find yourself at the bottom of your to-do list.”

Pilates has become one of her non-negotiables. “Twice a week, I make sure to attend a class. It’s just up the road, so I don’t feel far from Eva, but it’s an hour where I can breathe and focus on myself,” she shares.

She credits her support system as crucial for finding this balance. “We’re really lucky to have help. My mum watches Eva twice a week so I can either work or do something just for me.”

The Reality of “Perfect” Motherhood Online

Emily is acutely aware of how motherhood is curated on social media and the pressure that can place on new moms. “Online life can look so effortless. It projects this flawless image of motherhood, and it’s easy to doubt yourself,” she confides.

“I remember posting a fun reel where I’d taken the time to style my hair and put on makeup. Someone commented, ‘How do you look that good? It’s so unrealistic.’ But that’s just how I choose to spend my nap time. Some moms use that time to catch up on sleep; I opt for makeup and work instead. Everyone finds their own way to cope,” she emphasizes.

As for outside opinions, Emily sets clear boundaries. “I’ve always maintained strong boundaries with social media. I genuinely don’t care what strangers think; their opinion doesn’t matter. What matters is how I feel about myself and the support I get from my mum and close friends.”

Essential Purchases for New Mum Life

Naturally, Emily shared some of her go-to products that made the early days a bit easier. These essentials helped her manage everything from keeping things tidy to having Eva close by. Here are some of her must-haves that made the transition into motherhood smoother:

Through her journey, Emily exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and the unwavering power of love. Life may have changed, but her determination to make the most of it shines through.When you first welcome your little one into the world, life gets filled with so many new joys, challenges, and, let’s face it, a bit of chaos. One of those challenges is managing a never-ending pile of dirty nappies. Enter the Korbell Classic Nappy Bin—a product that received rave reviews from parents and might just be the hero you didn’t know you needed.

Imagine this: You’re juggling a screaming baby, a demanding toddler, and your own needs, all while trying to keep your home tidy. That’s where the Korbell comes in, making life just a touch easier during those early days. This innovative nappy bin boasts a generous 16-litre capacity that can hold up to 45 nappies—talk about saving space! Its design is really thoughtful: a double-sealing mechanism that effectively locks in odors, so you won’t be left with any unpleasant surprises when you open the lid.

But let’s get real—keeping things fresh is essential. That’s why the Korbell features lightly scented biodegradable liners that not only trap odors but also take care of the environment. It’s like having an extra pair of hands that help maintain a clean and fresh space without any extra fuss. Plus, it’s convenient to operate with a foot pedal, which means you can dispose of the nappy hands-free. How great is that?

An economical continuous liner system means you won’t have to deal with messy, wasted liners either—just pull, cut, and tie. This simple process is designed for efficiency, making nappy disposal almost effortless amidst the beautiful chaos of parenthood.

Ultimately, the Korbell Classic Nappy Bin isn’t just about throwing away used nappies; it’s about reclaiming some peace of mind and making daily life that much smoother. As many parents can attest, when parenting gets tough, it’s the small things—like a handy nappy bin—that can make all the difference. With a product you can truly trust, you can focus more on those precious moments with your child, knowing that your home remains tidy and fresh.The Tommee Tippee UV Steriliser stands out as a must-have for any new parent navigating the exhilarating yet often overwhelming world of childcare. One user raved, “I love my Tommee Tippee UV steriliser! It’s super handy.” This isn’t just a passing compliment; it’s a testament to the product’s thoughtful design and remarkable functionality.

Unlike traditional sterilisation methods that rely on harsh chemicals, steam, or heat—which can be daunting for parents concerned about their baby’s health—the Tommee Tippee UV steriliser harnesses the power of UV light to eliminate 99.9% of harmful bacteria and viruses. It works efficiently too; in just 35 minutes, you can sterilise and dry up to six bottles. That’s right—no more kitchen clutter while waiting for bottles to air dry or worrying about whether they are truly clean. And for added peace of mind, it keeps the bottles sterile for up to 24 hours when stored in its specialized mode.

Parents today appreciate products that not only save time but also ensure the safety of their little ones without sacrificing convenience. The Tommee Tippee UV steriliser fits most bottle brands, demonstrating versatility, and its energy-efficient design means that it won’t break the bank on your electricity bill. As any parent knows, finding those moments to take a breather can feel impossible. This steriliser could be a game changer, allowing you to reclaim a bit of precious time amid the chaos of parenting.

The overall experience of using this steriliser has been met with positive feedback from various parents, underscoring its reliability. Many users have found that it seamlessly integrates into their routine, providing genuine peace of mind as they care for their newborn’s needs. Parents are actively seeking solutions that allow them to focus more on bonding with their baby and less on mundane chores, and the Tommee Tippee is designed to meet that demand.

In an era where trust in baby products is paramount, Tommee Tippee has established itself as a reputable brand, known for setting high standards in baby care. Their commitment to safety and ease of use resonates deeply with parents who desire the best for their children.

This steriliser isn’t just a product; it’s an ally in your parenting journey—a little miracle worker that helps keep your child’s world safe, clean, and happy. By choosing the Tommee Tippee UV Steriliser, you’re not just investing in a product; you’re investing in simplicity, safety, and your peace of mind. It’s one less thing to worry about as you navigate the beautiful, sometimes messy, adventure of parenthood.The Cybex Lemo Highchair 4-in-1 Set has proven to be a valuable addition to many families, earning high praise among parents. One reviewer aptly noted, “The Cybex high chair with the newborn attachment has been another really good one.” With its impressive design, this highchair is not just a temporary solution but a commitment to your child’s growth.

From the early days of snuggling your little one in a comfy seat to the rambunctious toddler phases, the Cybex Lemo adapts effortlessly to your child’s changing needs. Its ergonomic design offers unwavering support, while the adjustable attachments make it a long-lasting choice for any household.

What really sets this highchair apart is its stylish aesthetic. It doesn’t fight for attention in your home like some bulky highchairs might; instead, it blends right in—turning mealtimes into a chic, cozy experience. You want your home to feel inviting and polished, and this highchair helps you achieve just that, all while being highly functional.

It’s easy to become overwhelmed with choices for baby gear, especially when it comes to something as critical as a highchair. After all, this is where your little one will make their first food memories! With the Cybex Lemo, you’re not just getting another piece of furniture; you’re bringing home a highchair built to grow with your child. It’s designed with sustainability in mind, making it a thoughtful investment that prioritizes both function and design.

In a world where options can feel endless, the Cybex Lemo Highchair stands out for its versatility, combining modern aesthetics with ease of use. It’s reassuring to know that you’ve chosen something that’s been endorsed by parents who appreciate a blend of practicality and elegance—an invaluable aspect during the busy years of parenting.

When considering any product for your child, it’s always essential to weigh its usability and longevity. The Cybex Lemo has been thoughtfully constructed to accompany your family through those precious years, making it not just a seat at the table but a place for cherished moments—like giggles at dinner or that first taste of solid food.

Choosing the right highchair is more than a decision of convenience; it’s about creating the best environment for your child’s development. With the Cybex Lemo Highchair, you’re choosing a piece of equipment that understands the journey of parenting—one that promises to meet the needs of both you and your little one, fostering trust and comfort right from day one.Emily knows firsthand the rollercoaster that is parenthood. She doesn’t shy away from the reality of the challenges; after all, they’re part of the journey that transforms you. Yet, through her struggles, she’s emerged with a deeper strength—a sense of resilience that can only come from navigating the ups and downs of raising a little one.

“Don’t be too hard on yourself. It gets better,” she gently advises fellow parents who might feel overwhelmed or discouraged. It’s a reminder that the tough days don’t define you, and that brighter moments are often just around the corner.

But for Emily, there’s a critical lesson that stands out above the rest: the power of gratitude. “What I’ve learned more than anything is to cherish the small things,” she reflects. After facing the chaos and unpredictability of motherhood, she finds herself savoring the simple joys—a shared giggle, a peaceful nap, or the warmth of her child’s little hand in hers. “You come out of it with this enormous gratitude—for life, for health, for everything you may have once taken for granted,” she concludes, highlighting that each moment is a precious gift.

In this way, Emily’s journey encapsulates the very essence of motherhood: a path filled with highs and lows, but ultimately enriched by the love for your child and a newfound appreciation for life itself.