Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Empress Simone’. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Empress, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

Mission Statement: My NICU Story

At My NICU Story, our mission is to provide unwavering support, advocacy, and a sense of community for families navigating the challenges of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). As a two-time preemie mom, I know firsthand the emotional rollercoaster, the fears, and the hopes that come with having a baby in the NICU. My personal journey has ignited a deep passion within me to help others facing similar experiences.

My mission is to ensure that no family feels alone during their NICU journey. I aim to offer a safe space where parents can find comfort, share their stories, and access valuable resources that will empower them through this challenging time. Whether it’s through providing emotional support, connecting families with essential information, or advocating for the needs of preemies and their families, my goal is to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

This mission is profoundly meaningful to me because I’ve walked the path that many of you are on now. I understand the fears, the sleepless nights, and the small victories that mean everything. My NICU Story is more than just a platform—it’s a heartfelt commitment to standing by your side as you navigate this journey, offering hope, understanding, and a community that truly cares.

Empress, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Absolutely! My journey into this industry is deeply personal and driven by my experiences as a two-time preemie mom. Navigating the NICU journey twice was both challenging and transformative. It opened my eyes to the unique struggles that families face during this time, and it ignited a passion in me to support and advocate for others going through similar experiences.

I founded My NICU Story as a platform dedicated to providing support, resources, and a sense of community for NICU families. We offer a range of services, from emotional support and advocacy to educational resources tailored specifically to the needs of preemie parents. Our goal is to empower families, helping them navigate the complexities of the NICU journey with confidence and hope.

What sets My NICU Story apart is our deeply personal approach. Having been in the same situation as many of our followers, I understand the fears, challenges, and small victories that come with the NICU experience. This firsthand understanding allows us to connect with our community on a level that is both genuine and empathetic.

I’m most proud of the impact we’ve been able to make in the lives of NICU families. Whether it’s through providing a much-needed word of encouragement, sharing vital information, or simply being a listening ear, knowing that we’re making a difference is incredibly rewarding.

For those considering joining our community or seeking our support, I want you to know that My NICU Story is here to stand by your side every step of the way. Our brand is built on the values of compassion, understanding, and resilience. We’re not just another resource; we’re a lifeline of support for families when they need it most.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy in growing our clientele has been building authentic, trust-based relationships within the NICU community. Our approach is centered on truly understanding the needs and challenges of NICU families, and then offering tailored support that resonates with their experiences.

Word of mouth has played a significant role in our growth. When families feel genuinely supported and understood, they naturally want to share that experience with others. By consistently providing valuable resources, sharing relatable content, and fostering a strong sense of community, we’ve been able to create a loyal and engaged following.

Another key strategy has been our active presence on social media and participation in relevant online communities. By sharing real stories, offering expert advice, and engaging directly with our audience, we’ve been able to build a strong, connected community that continues to grow.

Lastly, collaboration with other organizations and influencers in the NICU and preemie space has helped us reach a broader audience. By aligning with others who share our mission, we’ve been able to amplify our message and extend our reach to even more families in need of support.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was the idea that I could plan every detail of my life and that things would go exactly as I envisioned. Before becoming a two-time NICU mom, I was someone who believed that if I worked hard enough and prepared for everything, I could control the outcomes. But life has a way of reminding us that we’re not in control—and that’s where my faith truly deepened.

When I found myself in the NICU with my first preemie, it was a reality check. All the plans I had for a smooth pregnancy and early motherhood were suddenly out the window. The experience was humbling, and I had to let go of the notion that I could manage it all on my own. Then, when I went through it again with my second preemie, I realized that God’s plan was far greater than anything I could have ever imagined or prepared for.

God used these experiences to teach me that while I may not have control over everything, I can always trust in His plan. Through the uncertainty and the fear, He was there, guiding me, giving me strength, and showing me that His plan is always perfect, even when it doesn’t match mine.

These experiences also reminded me that sometimes the most challenging moments are where God’s purpose shines the brightest. I learned to surrender my need for control and to trust that God was working everything out for good, even in the NICU, where the future seemed so uncertain.

Now, as I reflect on my journey, I see how God was preparing me to support and advocate for other NICU families. My experiences weren’t just challenges; they were stepping stones that led me to my true purpose. God always has a plan, and being a two-time NICU mom has proven that to be true in the most profound way. It’s a lesson I’ll carry with me forever, and one that I hope to share with others as they navigate their own journeys.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: my_nicustory

Image Credits

Photos by T Rochelle Photography