“Grayson’s Story: A NICU Pandemic Blessing”
By Charnay Parks
Available through AuthorHouse, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to fill ICUs, many new mothers find themselves grappling with the added stress of isolation, hospital room restrictions, and uncertainty around both theirs and their baby’s health. In 2020, Charnay Parks gave birth to her first son, Grayson. But when he quickly became ill, he was admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and Charnay found herself separated from her child. She wrote her debut children’s book, “Grayson’s Story: A NICU Pandemic Blessing,” to help other parents in similarly uncertain situations find the light at the end of the tunnel and receive the support they need during the difficult moments of early parenthood.
In “Grayson’s Story,” Charnay shares the heart-warming journey of baby Grayson and his mother as they spend a fortnight in the NICU during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic shortly after his birth. Charnay’s book is a fun read written in flowing rhyme that parents can share with their little ones to let them know how much they are loved. “Grayson’s Story” also encourages parents in moments of doubt and assures them that they are not alone.
Based on Charnay’s real-life account, this illustrated, inspirational story is perfect for parents who are navigating unexpected, life-threatening medical experiences at the early stage of their baby’s life. “Grayson’s Story” compassionately captures the unconditional love and bond shared by Grayson and his mother. The book also highlights key elements of the recovery process and demonstrates the power of remaining optimistic, having faith, and being in good spirits despite uncertainty.
I had a chance to interview the author to learn more.
Why did you write this book?
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to fill ICUs, many new mothers find themselves grappling with the added stress of isolation, hospital room restrictions, and uncertainty around both theirs and their baby’s health. In 2020, I gave birth to my first son, Grayson. But when he quickly became ill, he was admitted to a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and I found myself separated from my child. I wrote my debut children’s book, “Grayson’s Story: A NICU Pandemic Blessing,” to help other parents in similarly uncertain situations find the light at the end of the tunnel and receive the support they need during the difficult moments of early parenthood.
Why is it important for young kids to be able to see things like the NICU in children's books?
The book is more so for moms and children can relate to the book by focusing on motivation, endurance, and happiness.
Even if kids are too young to understand the words, how can reading these types of books be beneficial?
In “Grayson’s Story,” I share my heart-warming journey with baby Grayson as we spent a fortnight in the NICU during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic shortly after his birth. The book is a fun read written in flowing rhyme that parents can share with their little ones to let them know how much they are loved. “Grayson’s Story” also encourages parents in moments of doubt and assures them that they are not alone.
About the author
Charnay Parks is the owner of an HR consulting firm, and she earned her master’s degree and bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. She decided to write “Grayson’s Story” after her firstborn baby, Grayson, was hospitalized in the NICU at Children’s Hospital, Dallas, during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. Charnay attributes her accomplishments to faith, grace, perseverance, and drive. She and her son enjoy long walks, traveling, and spending time with family, and they currently reside in Dallas.
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