ABOUT
From professional expertise to personal experience
OUR STORY
As NICU Nurse Practitioners, we understand the importance of prioritizing the entire family during this critical time. Research shows that NICU stays are often linked to poor mental health outcomes, with the effects of traumatic stress persisting long after discharge.
As parents of NICU graduates, we recognize the gaps in healthcare support for these families. At NEOwell, we are committed to bridging those gaps, providing comprehensive care and resources to promote healing and resilience for both parents and their newborns.
Meet the Co-Founders Melissa and Margie
Melissa Braun, MSN, CRNP, CBC
Melissa is a licensed and board-certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience in neonatal intensive care. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Colorado, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Georgetown University, and a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Neonatology from The Ohio State University. Melissa’s extensive expertise reflects her dedication to providing exceptional care for neonates and their families.
Melissa is a highly skilled practitioner committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care to NICU infants and their families. In addition to her extensive experience, she is a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor and a Neonatal Resuscitation Provider Instructor. A mother of three and a former NICU parent herself, Melissa brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to her work. She resides in Arlington, VA, where she continues to support families during their most critical moments.
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10+ years as a board-certified Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
15+ years as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse
Georgetown University - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Ohio State University - Master of Science in Nursing
Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC)
Neonatal Resuscitation Provider Instructor
CPR certified
Currently working as a Nurse Practitioner in a Level 4 NICU
Margie Kuczkowski, MSN, CRNP, CBC
Margie is a licensed and board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of experience in neonatal intensive care. She earned both her undergraduate and graduate nursing degrees from the University of Virginia. A devoted advocate for comprehensive care, Margie is passionate about supporting not just the infant but the entire family throughout their NICU journey. Her extensive experience and compassionate approach make her an invaluable resource for families during this critical time.
Margie is a compassionate practitioner dedicated to providing families with personalized care and support during their NICU journey. As a mother of former 28-week twins in the NICU, she combines her personal experience with 20 years of professional expertise to guide her practice. She is also a Certified Breastfeeding Counselor and a Neonatal Resuscitation Provider Instructor. Margie lives in Falls Church, VA, and is a proud mother of three children, bringing empathy and understanding to every family she serves.
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15+ years as a board-certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
20+ years as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Nurse
University of Virginia - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
University of Virginia - Master of Science in Nursing
Certified Breastfeeding Counselor (CBC)
Neonatal Resuscitation Provider Instructor
CPR certified
Currently working as a Nurse Practitioner in a Level 4 NICU