A Cary husband and wife who were thrust into the unfamiliar, terrifying world of the neonatal intensive-care unit upon the birth of their premature twins have written a book to help others in similar situations.

Nicole Zimmerman and Edward Sprague announce a book designed to help parents of “preemies,” their families and friends — as well as healthcare providers who care for these children — to understand and navigate the uncertainty surrounding premature births.

“The NICU Rollercoaster: How to Set Up and Use and Online Blog to Help Survive the Ups, Downs, Agonies and Joys of Your Baby’s Stay” explains common problems preemies face, offers suggestions for coping and shares the authors’ experiences. The innovative format combines helpful “how to survive” advice with blog entries and blog reader comments.

A book release is being held Aug. 29, from 6-8 p.m., at Pure Expressions Photography, 1500 Town Side Drive, Suite 104 in Apex.

For Nicole and Edward, a seemingly healthy pregnancy took an unexpected turn and resulted in the birth of two profoundly premature babies. Like so many parents of preemies or other newborns with medical issues, they suddenly were engulfed by the neonatal intensive-care unit system. This couple quickly learned the meaning of the “NICU rollercoaster.”

One day everything was going well, the next day one of the babies was very sick. The ups and downs were constant and agonizing. They recount that the 160 days between July 7 and Dec.14, 2006 were the most emotionally trying times of their lives. Comfort came from a surprising source: the Internet.

To order the book, log on to xlibris.com/TheNICURollercoaster.html.