My name is Marília Rêgo, and I’m an occupational therapist working in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a public hospital in Recife, Brazil. Every day, I have the privilege—and the responsibility—of accompanying premature babies and their families through some of the most fragile and formative moments of their lives.

Among all the babies I’ve cared for, there is one who left a lasting mark on me. She was born with a rare syndrome, incredibly delicate, and spent two months in the NICU. During that time, our bond was built not through dramatic interventions, but through the quiet power of presence. I would often go to her bedside just to change her diaper slowly, calmly—so that she could have a positive experience of touch and human connection, even in the middle of so many wires and monitors.

There were days when there was no specific therapeutic plan for her. And still, I showed up. Because sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer is our presence, our gentleness, our intention.

And then, one day, she passed away.

Even though she had received every professional care possible—medical support, therapies, loving attention—that loss hurt deeply. But it also revealed something profound to me: that our work in neonatal care is not only about helping babies recover or thrive. It’s also about loving them fully, even when there are no guarantees. It’s about being a bridge, even when the road is short.

Her story changed me. It reminded me that care isn’t measured only in days of life, but in the love and intention that fill those days. That sometimes, a baby’s mission is brief—but never meaningless. And that if there is love, there is purpose.

I’m sharing this not to romanticize pain, but to honor the truth that sometimes, it teaches us the most. If you are a parent, a caregiver, or a healthcare professional reading this—what you do matters. Even when it feels small. Even when it ends sooner than you hoped.

Your presence matters.

And that, in itself, is a form of healing.

–Marília Rêgo

Marília’s professional focus is on early intervention, family-centered care, and neuroprotection strategies for premature and high-risk newborns. She has studied and applied neuroprotective care principles inspired by NIDCAP in her practice. She hopes to participate in formal NIDCAP training in the future.