Batesville fifth grader hopes to become NICU nurse

She saw how NICU nurses helped her sisters

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) – Batesville fifth grader Audrey Swain will never forget the people who helped her two little sisters.

Two years ago, Audrey had recently become a big sister of twin girls who both had to spend several months inside the NICU at Franciscan Health in Indianapolis.

She couldn't visit the NICU due to COVID policies but was able to watch the livestream cameras that were pointed at the twins. Plus, her parents BJ and Theresa would take photos and explain what was happening in the hospital.

“I remember all of the equipment they were hooked to and the feeding tubes that helped them eat,” Swain said.

Her two sisters are now healthy and happy but the twins’ experience inside the NICU is something Audrey thinks about often. 

It has inspired her to become a NICU nurse when she grows up.

“Seeing how they helped my little sisters has shown me that I can also help other kids,” Audrey said. 

Swain still has several years of schooling ahead but doesn’t expect her plans or passion to change. 

She was asked where she wants to work once she has the opportunity to become a NICU nurse. 

“Honestly, probably somewhere that is a bit closer,” she said. 

We responded, “Like in Batesville?”

“Yes, that would be perfect,” she responded.