Julia and Valerie Rodriguez have been friends since their days as sorority sisters, but back then the two women never imagined that years later they would both deliver multiples who survived the NICU against all odds.

On this week’s episode of Unapologetic, Julia sits down for an honest and vulnerable conversation with Valerie as Valerie shares all she went through to bring Cruz, born at 23 weeks, home to their family. Together the two talk through the loss of Cruz’s twin brother, Cristiano, what all moms need to know about the NICU, and how to fight bitterness when life doesn’t turn out like we imagined. Julia ends the episode by praying over Valerie—and really, anyone walking through hardship—asking God for His grace, peace, and hope in the midst of some of the hardest circumstances life can throw our way.

You can read Valerie’s full NICU story here and follow her on Instagram to stay updated on Cruz’s progress and the rest of their family’s adventures.