Pete Buttigieg, former mayor of South Bend, Indiana and one-time presidential candidate, recently shared the harrowing experience of his twins’ premature birth and subsequent health complications. In a Medium post in August 2022, Buttigieg revealed that his children were born prematurely and had to spend two weeks in the hospital before they could go home. However, one of the twins developed severe reflux, and both were later diagnosed with the respiratory virus RSV, which required one of them to endure another lengthy hospital stay.
Buttigieg expressed his concerns about the seriousness of RSV for premature infants, emphasizing that what may be a mere cold for adults can pose a life-threatening risk for vulnerable babies. He described the anxiety and fear of watching his infants being sedated and surrounded by wires, tubes, and monitors in the hospital, questioning the fairness of a universe where a child’s time on Earth could be cut short after just a few weeks.
The former mayor’s candid account of his parenting experience struck a chord with many, eliciting empathy and understanding from parents who have also faced the challenges and uncertainties of premature birth. Buttigieg’s openness about his family’s struggles resonated with those who have had similar journeys, creating a sense of solidarity among parents who have had to navigate the complexities of caring for premature infants.
However, amidst Buttigieg’s heartfelt story, criticism has arisen from unexpected quarters. Lis Smith, a former staff member on Buttigieg’s presidential campaign, condemned Vice President Mike Pence for making derogatory remarks about Buttigieg at the Gridiron Dinner. Smith referred to Pence as an “unambiguous asshole,” highlighting the discrepancy between the former vice president’s actions and Buttigieg’s vulnerable disclosure about his family’s difficult experience.
The episode serves as a reminder of the political divisiveness that often pervades public discourse. While Buttigieg’s personal story touched many, it also became an opportunity for critics to attack him. The incident underscores the challenges faced by public figures who choose to share personal narratives, as they must navigate both the vulnerability of their experiences and the potential for backlash from opponents.
In the end, Buttigieg’s account of his twins’ premature birth and health complications sheds light on the often overlooked struggles faced by parents of premature infants. By sharing his story, Buttigieg has brought attention to the challenges and fears that accompany the early arrival of a child. Despite the criticism he has faced, his openness has provided solace and support to others who have endured similar ordeals, fostering a sense of community among parents who understand the unique difficulties of caring for premature babies.
