MetroMom Erica Colmenero
After 8 years in nursing, Erica Colmenero opened a pediatric nursing company, VIVA Pediatrics. Two months later, her second daughter was born at just 26 weeks gestation. Erica’s experiences in taking care of a toddler, managing her newborn’s care, doctor’s visits, and medication, as well as running her business gave her the unique perspective to support other families in similar situations.

MM - What led you to open your own pediatrics nursing company?

I have been a nurse for 8 years and in 2004 I got my start in home care. I am so passionate about working with children but felt like something was missing. I wanted to feel like I was making a difference in the lives of my families and in the community. I knew I would need to build something of my own if I was going to be able to have the personal impact I wanted. I didn't want to have to ask permission before doing what my heart told me...I wanted my patients and families to feel important...I wanted to be different. VIVA Pediatrics is my chance to accomplish all of those goals.  

MM - When Lexi came home you were taking care of a toddler, running a business and managing her care, medications, monitors and doctors visits. Though you had some options for nursing help, you made the decision to take care of everything yourself and with family help. Why did you decide not to use outside help?

Well, when you ask it like that, of course it seems crazy! In hindsight, it would've been a great idea for me to have help but like every other wanna-be Supermom, it never even crossed my mind that I couldn't do it all. Because I am a nurse, I knew I could handle the medical care that was necessary for Lexi but what I didn't consider was that there are only 24 hours in a day.

MM - Your experiences must have given you the unique insight to what other families (and your customers) in similar situations experience and you are able to help them navigate a new world including other therapies, support groups and payment options.

I truly believe everything happens for a reason and to be able to relate so closely to my families and to be a resource for them is just priceless. I feel a bit like it's an experienced mom giving you advice versus a woman who's never had kids before. Our primary focus is providing nursing for families who need us, but we also make it a priority to attend networking events to learn what other services and groups families can benefit from. We even founded a support group for families who have children with tracheotomies and/or are ventilator dependent.* I am also now an expert at the tricky world of obtaining financial support for special-needs children after having researched many avenues myself.

MM - No doubt the stresses of running a new business and taking care of the girls took its toll on you. Were you able to make time to care of yourself?

If you had asked me this question last year, I would have said, "What time?!" But after becoming completely overwhelmed, I realized I had to make time! What works for me is getting up early and meeting friends at the gym before coming home to my family and getting ready for the day ahead. And the occasional glass of wine doesn't hurt!

MM - How do you balance work and motherhood today?

Initially it was difficult for me to go to work with Lexi in the NICU and Ava going to school all day. I think every working mom has to deal with a little bit of guilt knowing they don't get to spend all day every day with their children. However, I knew I was doing inspiring work and making a difference for my families as well as being the best person I could be and I think that will be a great example for my girls. I feel like I have gone from having 2 kids to having 40 and they all require constant love and attention. Motherhood is a constant balancing act but I make it a point now to not pick up my phone or check email from the time I get home until my kids are in bed. This way the time I spend with my family is quality time that is special for all of us.
 
MM - What is your parenting motto?

Parenting is an art, you have the opportunity to start from scratch and influence the creation of our future. No pressure, right?!

If you or someone you know has a child with a tracheostomy or is ventilator dependent and would like to meet other moms who can relate please visit Erica’s Support Group Site: http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/APAKS/