Moms develop special friendships in Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Nursery ICU

(PHOENIX - May 9, 2023) - Sometimes the most special of friendships can form during the most vulnerable of times, like when your baby is being cared for in the nursery ICU at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. 

Sabrina Hishmeh and Porsha Barge met in December inside St. Joseph’s NyICU after their little ones, Olive Hishmeh and Jaylen Barge-Thues, were born before the 26th week of pregnancy. At the time of their births, micro-preemies Olive and Jaylen hardly weighed more than 1 pound each. For more than 130 days, Sabrina and Porsha have found unique support in their friendship as they cheer on their babies who continue to beat the odds.

“It is very hard to understand what a mom is going through when their baby is in the NyICU, especially if you haven’t been through the experience yourself,” said Porsha. “I’m so grateful to have found a friend in Sabrina and to support each other through this shared experience.”

Sabrina and Porsha say their friendship will continue long after their babies are discharged from the hospital. And, they will carry a special reminder of their NyICU journey in the form of a book titled “A Tale of Two with Olive and Jaylen.”

“Porsha gifted us this book when Olive celebrated her 100th day in St. Joseph’s NyICU,” said Sabrina. “It means so much to have found a lifelong friend through this challenging experience. I know we are both looking foward to watching our children grow up together after we head home.”

Although Sabrina and Porsha may be spending this Mother’s Day in the hospital, they have so much to celebrate. Today, Olive weighs 8 lbs and 9 oz and Jaylen weighs 7 lbs and 15 oz and the two continue to meet many milestones on their journey home.

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Media contact: Abby Kay, [email protected]