The scientific production overview that concerns the family and stomas urges for studies about the subject, especially about the experience in neonatal period. The present study aimed to comprehend mothers' experience about stomized children during neonatal period or the hospitalization period in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The methodological approach adopted in this study was Oral History, where interviews were conducted with nine mothers. The rescue of individual memories enabled construction of collective memory, organized in four themes: dreams versus reality, lost protection, in fear's company and motherhood is needed. The results allow a reflection about the importance of more effective actions that contribute to the autonomy and relief of suffering of the mother in NICU, where nursing care can be guided by the principles of Family Centered Care.
Infant, newborn; Surgical stomas; Mothers; Neonatal nursing; Family