176. 147 Days in the NICU: A Mother’s Story of Resilience

In today’s powerful episode, I’m joined by Steph Hauser—writer, ultrarunner, and NICU mom of four—whose son Zev was born at just 23 weeks with only a 1% chance of survival. Steph opens up about what it was like to spend 147 days in the NICU, how she turned that pain into purpose through her nonprofit 4Those, and the healing journey that led her to run 147 miles—one for each day her son fought to live. We talk about the emotional toll of medical uncertainty, the unexpected crossover with the T1D community, and how a simple question—“Tell me what’s good?”—can help shift even the darkest moments. Steph’s story is a reflection of what’s possible when we choose to rise, not just for ourselves but for others walking similar paths. Her voice is a reminder that even if it feels like the end, your story still has so much life, strength, and hope left to unfold. 

Timestamps:

• [01:19] Introduction to today’s episode and guest 
• [06:08] The NICU journey: Zev’s birth story 
• [07:29] “We can hold both the grief and the joy.” 
• [10:39] Facing the impossible: Decisions in the NICU 
• [13:55] “Tell me what’s good” 
• [20:39] What kept them going & hopeful
• [49:40] Steph’s next challenge: 1,470 miles for hope 
• [53:09] Running for a cause: The journey of endurance 
  
  

What to do now: 

1. Follow me @lauren_bongiorno and @riselyhealth on Instagram to stay in the loop when new episodes drop.
2. Apply for coaching and talk to our team so you can reclaim the life you deserve. 
3. Follow Steph’s Journey: https://www.4those.org/ & on Instagram! 
4. To simplify your supply ordering process, learn more about Byram Health HERE or contact them at: 866-884-0857