September 2020 – preemiePRO Highlight

Kimberly Novod, MPA
Founder and Executive Director, Saul’s Light
“Women and children face the greatest risk of poverty. It’s up to us to change that.” – Kimberly Novod

PREEMIEWORLD: How long have you been working in your field?
KIMBERLY: 6 years

PREEMIEWORLD: Why did you choose your current profession?
KIMBERLY: My profession chose me. I had been an educator for over 10 years. However, when my son Saul was born prematurely and ultimately died as a result, my entire world shifted. It was important for me that his death not be in vain and that mothers in my community feel supported in their NICU and grief journeys. In 2015, I founded Saul’s Light to do just that. In the last five years, our organization has grown to provide financial assistance, peer support, and advocacy, among other community-based initiatives in New Orleans.

PREEMIEWORLD: What do you want other professionals to know about what you do?
KIMBERLY: Mothers, particularly Black mothers, who experience premature birth and infant mortality are not mere statistics. We are real people with dreams for our families. We highly anticipate, love, and want our babies. Lastly, race does not explain health disparities, rather racism does.

PREEMIEWORLD: What advice do you give to preemie parents?
KIMBERLY: My advice to preemie parents is to be mindful by trying to stay present and not think too much in the past or future. This is easier said than done and can be immensely helpful in dealing with mental health during the NICU journey.

PREEMIEWORLD: Fun Facts: Tell us a fun or quirky fact about you.
KIMBERLY: I love “mignon” things, small & pretty things such as books, jewelry, furniture, etc!

PREEMIEWORLD: Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
KIMBERLY: Follow @sauls_light on IG & Twitter!