In a poignant reunion, Shawna May visited the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, New York, earlier this month, more than three decades after the medical facility fought to save her life. Born at just 23 weeks and weighing a mere 1 lb., 4.5 oz, May’s survival was deemed improbable by medical professionals, making her story one of remarkable resilience and hope.
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Reflecting on her visit, May described the experience as “surreal.” She recounted the emotional toll of seeing the same NICU where she had spent the first crucial months of her life. “I didn’t realise what my mum and dad went through,” she stated. Throughout her visit, the feelings overwhelmed her, leading her to shed tears as she connected with the memories and emotions associated with that period of adversity.
In 1989, May’s parents were warned that the chances of their newborn daughter surviving were grim. After a challenging birth that left her fighting for life, she endured numerous surgeries and serious medical challenges during her first four months in intensive care. Now, at the age of 37, May lives in the Hudson Valley region and has embraced her identity, albeit with the challenges of cerebral palsy and hand paralysis resulting from her premature birth. She describes herself as a “medical mystery,” as doctors were unable to determine definitive reasons for her early arrival.
During her recent visit, May had the opportunity to meet a prematurely born baby currently receiving care. The encounter provided her with significant perspective on her own journey. “It puts it into perspective just how tiny and fragile and sick I was. The baby had wires just everywhere, and it was heartbreaking to see,” she shared.
Beyond simply reflecting on her past, May aimed to make a positive impact during her return to the NICU. Accompanied by her co-host from the “Life Beyond the Mic” podcast, Lauren Maresca, she brought essential supplies to families currently navigating the challenges of having a premature infant. They donated 60 breast pumps, pacifiers, and affirmation cards, with the intention of offering support and encouragement to mothers during a difficult time. “We wanted to do something that could help mums feel supported,” May stated, underscoring the need for positivity in challenging situations.
The visit also held deep significance for May’s mother, Kathy White, who accompanied her daughter and reflected on the faith and hope that played a crucial role throughout their ordeal. White referred to May as a “miracle” and attributed her daughter’s survival, in part, to divine intervention. “You gotta turn it over to God. I prayed that she would get better,” White explained, emphasising the power of faith in dealing with uncertainty.
Throughout the years, White has watched her daughter transform from a fragile infant into a strong advocate for women with disabilities. She expressed pride in May’s journey and the strength it exemplifies both for parents and their prematurely born children. “You’re stronger than you think,” White reminded other parents, “and your baby is so much stronger than we give them credit for.”
As she continues to channel her experiences into advocacy, Shawna May remains determined to bring hope to those facing similar struggles. By giving back to the NICU that played a pivotal role in her survival, she aims to inspire families navigating the harrowing journey of prematurity. May’s story is not just about survival; it is also a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
In sharing her journey, May hopes to provide a source of comfort and encouragement to those wrestling with fear and uncertainty, proving that even the smallest lives can have a profound impact on the world around them. The importance of community and support systems in such challenging times cannot be overstated, and May’s return to the NICU serves as a powerful reminder of the fragile yet resilient nature of life.