Jacqui Gover

Our daughter, Maeve Barbara, was born on July 9th, 2023 at 33 weeks. It was one of the most beautiful and frightening days of our lives. Maeve arrived quickly via emergency c-section and was taken from us right away for medical care—and suddenly the moment we had dreamed of, welcoming our baby girl in the world, was nothing we had once imagined.

Maeve spent 54 days in the Special Care Nursery. Those days were filled with so many emotions—love, worry, and hope all at once. We are forever grateful for the care she received and for the support that surrounded us during that time.

In July 2025, we welcomed our son, Rory, who also needed extra care after birth and spent 10 days in the NICU at MGH due to respiratory challenges. 

While his stay was shorter, it brought us right back to the emotions, uncertainty, and deep gratitude that comes with having a baby in the NICU.

These experiences have shaped our hearts in ways we never expected. We carry so much gratitude for our children, while also holding close the reality that not every family’s story unfolds the same way. We hold space, always, for those whose journeys are filled with greater uncertainty, longer days, or profound loss.

During our time in the NICU and Special Care Nursery, I often thought about the other families walking similar paths. You don’t know how you’ll get through another day—but somehow, you do, for your baby. I promised myself I would give back in any way I could.

I march for Maeve, for Rory, and for every family navigating the NICU—past, present, and future. The funds I raise support March of Dimes programs like NICU Family Support, provide critical prenatal care, and fund research to improve outcomes for moms and babies everywhere.

Thank you 🤍