What does it truly mean to go above and beyond? For Katrina Mullen, a NICU nurse in Indianapolis, it meant opening her heart and home to a teen mom and her triplets, a decision that redefined the meaning of family.

Katrina Mullen's story is not just a heartwarming tale of adoption; it's a testament to the extraordinary capacity of the human spirit. Working at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis, Mullen encountered Shariya Small, a young teenager who had just given birth to premature triplets. The situation resonated deeply with Mullen, who herself had given birth at 16 and experienced the challenges of young motherhood. Little did she know, this encounter would lead to an incredible journey of compassion and unwavering support.

Category	Information
Name	Katrina Mullen
Age	45
Occupation	Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Nurse
Employer	Community Hospital North, Indianapolis, Indiana
Family Status	Single Mother (prior to adoption)
Children (Prior to adoption)	Five
Adoption Date of Shariya Small and her Triplets	February 6, 2023
Teen Mom Adopted	Shariya Small (Age 17 at the time of adoption)
Adopted Triplets	Serenitee, Samari, and Sarayah (Born in 2020)
Gofundme Campaign	Organized to build a financial cushion for Shariya and the triplets
Website	Community Health Network

Mullens journey began in the NICU, where she was assigned to care for Shariya and her triplets, Serenitee, Samari, and Sarayah. Born prematurely at just 26 weeks, the triplets required extensive care and attention. The average gestation for triplets is typically around 33 weeks, according to reproductivefacts.org, highlighting the vulnerability of these infants. As Mullen cared for the babies, she noticed that Shariya was often alone, spending countless hours at their bedside. "Shed be there alone for days at a time sitting at her babies bedside," Mullen recounted, her concern growing with each passing day. This observation highlighted the lack of a support system for the young mother, a reality that tugged at Mullen's heartstrings.

The bond between Mullen and Small deepened over the five months the triplets spent in the NICU. Mullen learned about Shariyas difficult home life and the challenges she faced as a teen mom with no support. Having been in a similar situation herself, Mullen understood the immense pressure and isolation Shariya was experiencing. At 16, Mullen had given birth to a son who was later adopted, an experience that gave her a unique perspective and empathy for Shariya's plight.

As the triplets' health improved and they prepared to leave the hospital, Shariya faced an uncertain future. When Shariya encountered difficulties with the Indiana Department of Child Services after one of the infants required hospitalization, Mullen knew she had to intervene. No one was going to take a teen mom and her preemie triplets, Mullen realized, and she couldnt bear the thought of the family being separated. Driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility, Mullen made the extraordinary decision to adopt Shariya and her triplets, ensuring they could stay together.

The adoption process was finalized on February 6, 2023, after 668 days of fostering Shariya. Mullen, already a mother of five, suddenly became a mother of six and a grandmother all in one day. At 45, she embraced the challenge of raising triplets alongside her other children, providing a stable and loving home for Shariya and her babies.

Raising three babies is undoubtedly a monumental task, and Mullen recognized the need for financial support. To help "build a financial cushion" for Shariya and the triplets, Mullen set up a GoFundMe campaign. The response was overwhelming, with the campaign quickly surpassing its original target of $20,000. This outpouring of support reflects the impact of Mullens selfless act and the desire of others to help this unconventional family thrive.

Katrina Mullen's story is a powerful reminder that doing the right thing, no questions asked, is the bravest thing we can do. Her unwavering commitment to Shariya and her triplets has transformed their lives and inspired countless others. She is more than just a nurse; she is a beacon of hope and a testament to the boundless potential of the human heart.

Mullen's actions speak volumes about her character and her dedication to her profession. As a NICU nurse, she is accustomed to caring for vulnerable infants, but her commitment extends far beyond the hospital walls. She embodies the true spirit of nursing, providing not only medical care but also emotional support and a sense of security to those in need.

The Washington Post reported that Mullen, working at Community Hospital North in Indianapolis, was initially assigned to Shariya Small, a teenager with two sickly baby girls and a boy. This assignment was the catalyst for a life-changing journey that saw Mullen open her home and heart to a young woman in desperate need of support. The situation highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by teen mothers and the critical role that nurses can play in providing both medical and social support.

According to USA Today, when Shariya faced challenges with the Indiana Department of Child Services after one of her infants required hospitalization, Mullen stepped in to adopt her and all three infants. This decision ensured that the family could stay together, despite Mullen already having children of her own. Her actions demonstrate a remarkable level of selflessness and a willingness to prioritize the well-being of others above her own convenience.

Small's babies were born at just 26 weeks, highlighting the challenges associated with premature birth. The NICU environment provided the necessary medical care to support the triplets' development, but it was Mullen's personal connection with Shariya that made the most significant difference. By offering emotional support, guidance, and a stable home environment, Mullen helped Shariya navigate the complexities of motherhood and overcome the obstacles she faced.

The story of Katrina Mullen and Shariya Small has resonated with people across the country, inspiring a sense of hope and compassion. Mullen's Instagram account, @kat_mullen23, provides a glimpse into their lives, showcasing the joys and challenges of raising triplets and the strong bond that has formed between them. Her story is a reminder that families come in many forms and that love and support are the most important ingredients for success.

Mullen's dedication to Shariya extends beyond the adoption process. She continues to provide guidance and support as Shariya navigates the challenges of young adulthood. Mullen's role as a mentor and advocate is invaluable, helping Shariya build a brighter future for herself and her children.

The overwhelming response to the GoFundMe campaign underscores the public's appreciation for Mullen's selfless act. The funds raised will help provide Shariya and the triplets with the resources they need to thrive, including education, healthcare, and other essential needs. This collective effort demonstrates the power of community and the willingness of individuals to support those who are making a difference in the lives of others.

Katrina Mullen's story is a testament to the power of human connection and the extraordinary capacity of ordinary people to make a difference. Her decision to adopt Shariya and her triplets is an act of profound compassion and a reminder that love knows no boundaries. She is a true hero, whose actions have transformed the lives of a young mother and her three precious babies.

The journey of Katrina Mullen and Shariya Small is a powerful example of the transformative impact that one person can have on the lives of others. Mullen's unwavering support and selfless dedication have given Shariya and her triplets a chance at a brighter future, proving that even in the face of adversity, love and compassion can prevail.

In a world often filled with negativity and division, Katrina Mullen's story shines as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Her actions remind us that each of us has the potential to make a difference in the lives of others, and that even the smallest acts of kindness can have a profound impact. By opening her heart and home to Shariya and her triplets, Mullen has created a family bound not by blood, but by love, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to one another.

The premature birth of Small's babies, born at just 26 weeks, presented significant challenges from the outset. Their initial months were spent in the NICU, where they received specialized care to support their development and overcome the complications associated with prematurity. The fact that triplets typically gestate for around 33 weeks underscores the fragility of these infants and the critical role that NICU nurses like Katrina Mullen play in ensuring their survival and well-being.

Katrina Mullen's willingness to open her home to Shariya Small and her triplets demonstrates a remarkable level of empathy and understanding. Having experienced the challenges of teen motherhood herself, Mullen recognized the unique struggles that Shariya faced and was determined to provide her with the support and guidance she needed to succeed. Her personal experience allowed her to connect with Shariya on a deeper level and offer her a sense of hope and encouragement during a difficult time.

The adoption of Shariya and her triplets by Katrina Mullen not only provided them with a stable and loving home but also ensured that they would remain together as a family. Mullen's decision to adopt all three infants, despite the challenges of raising triplets, reflects her unwavering commitment to their well-being and her desire to create a lasting family unit. Her actions demonstrate a profound sense of responsibility and a willingness to put the needs of others before her own.

The GoFundMe campaign launched by Katrina Mullen to support Shariya and the triplets has garnered widespread attention and support, underscoring the public's admiration for her selfless act. The funds raised through the campaign will provide Shariya and her children with the resources they need to thrive, including education, healthcare, and other essential needs. The outpouring of support reflects the belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed and that communities have a responsibility to support families in need.

Katrina Mullen's story is a powerful reminder that families come in many forms and that love, compassion, and unwavering support are the most important ingredients for creating a strong and resilient family unit. Her actions have not only transformed the lives of Shariya and her triplets but have also inspired countless others to embrace compassion and to make a difference in the lives of those around them. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, proving that even in the face of adversity, love can conquer all.

The fact that Mullen was already a mother of five before adopting Shariya and her triplets highlights the depth of her commitment and her willingness to take on additional responsibilities. Raising eight children is undoubtedly a demanding task, but Mullen has embraced the challenge with grace and determination, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to her family.

The strong bond that has formed between Katrina Mullen and Shariya Small is a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative impact that mentorship can have on the lives of young people. Mullen's guidance and support have helped Shariya navigate the challenges of motherhood and build a brighter future for herself and her children. Their relationship serves as an inspiration to others and demonstrates the importance of providing young people with positive role models and mentors who can help them reach their full potential.

The decision by Katrina Mullen to adopt Shariya Small and her triplets is an extraordinary act of kindness and compassion that has touched the hearts of people around the world. Her story is a reminder that even in the midst of challenges and adversity, the human spirit can triumph and that love and generosity can make a profound difference in the lives of others. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come, serving as a shining example of the power of compassion and the importance of giving back to our communities.