Finding strength at Jeneece Place: A mother’s journey
Since his birth in March 2023, Bellamy, with his infectious smile and bright blue eyes, has been a great source of joy for his family. It’s what’s helped them through some challenging times over the past year.
Bellamy’s journey into the heart of the NICU began when his mom, Nikki, was medivacked to the hospital from Port Alberni to give birth at 34 weeks, after six weeks of false labour and genetic testing.
The uncertainty and fear were immediate as the newborn faced an array of medical challenges that required intensive care and constant monitoring.
One of the most critical issues he faced was related to his hydrocephalus, a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain’s ventricles, causing pressure and potentially damaging the brain tissue. The pressure on Bellamy’s brain eventually caused seizures. His neurosurgeons had to keep a close eye on his ventricular size and fluid levels.
Amid the turmoil, Nikki found support at Jeneece Place, a Home away from home for families with children receiving health care in Victoria.
“I couldn’t have done it without the staff,” says Nikki. “I created very close bonds with all of them.”
Bellamy also had a narrow airway, which required careful management to maintain his oxygen levels. This condition led to multiple hospitalizations, including a recent stay due to aspiration pneumonia following a bout with COVID-19. Bellamy’s overall medical journey was fraught with numerous procedures, including spinal taps and blood transfusions.
“They saved his life,” Nikki says. “He was going downhill really fast, and the blood transfusion made him have so much energy.”
Despite the stress, Nikki remained resilient, driven by her love for Bellamy and the community she found at Jeneece Place. The home offered Nikki more than just a roof over her head; it became a refuge. Her older children joined her there and spent hours making art in the craft room, watching movies in the media room, and enjoying home cooked meals. It spared the family from the burden of hotel costs over their prolonged stay — almost three months total.
“To be honest with you, financially, my other kids would be suffering because of it,” Nikki says.
The proximity to the hospital also meant she could be with Bellamy as much as possible. The open concept of the NICU at Vic General and the communal kitchen at Jeneece Place allowed for relationships to form, which Nikki found helpful. She formed deep bonds with other parents facing similar challenges.
“We became each other’s emotional support people,” Nikki says. “We would just look at each other and know something, like we’re not having a good day today.”
Today, one-year-old Bellamy continues to grow, defying expectations. His journey isn’t over, with ongoing medical check-ups and the possibility of future interventions. However, Nikki remains optimistic, bolstered by the strength of her community and knowing Jeneece Place is there for her.
“I didn’t know about Jeneece Place until I needed it,” she says. “It honestly helps people, especially financially, no matter how long their stay.”
Nikki’s story is a testament to the resilience of families in the face of medical adversity and the role that supportive communities like Jeneece Place play in their journey. Through the friendships formed and the care received, Nikki and Bellamy’s experience highlights the impact of compassion and community during the most challenging times.
Help families stay at Jeneece Place by donating at islandkidsfirst.com
