Entry Category:
Class of ‘19-’14: Elementary
Child's Birth Year2018
State/Province/TerritoryAlabama
NICU Hospital for my journeyUSA Health Children's & Women's Hospital
My NICU Graduate's JourneyMaddox journey began far earlier than we ever expected. Born at just 30 weeks, we were suddenly thrown into a world of uncertainty, alarms, and medical jargon. I remember the fear of seeing him so tiny, in an isolette, surrounded by tubes and monitors—fighting for every breath. Those first days were filled with tears, prayers, and small victories that felt like miracles.
Every gram gained, every stable heartbeat, every moment off the ventilator gave us hope. The NICU became our second home, and the nurses and doctors became our lifeline. We learned to celebrate the little things—like the first time we got to hold him, the first time he opened his eyes, or the first time he finally wore clothes.
After spening 10 weeks in the NICU, we finally brought our warrior home. The journey wasn’t easy, but it made us stronger, and it showed us what true courage looks like. Our NICU graduate is a living reminder that strength comes in the tiniest packages, and we will forever be proud of his fight.
What makes you proud of you NICU graduate?I'm proud of my NICU graduate because he is the very definition of a miracle. From the moment he came into this world, he faced battles that most of us will never understand. I watched his tiny body covered in wires, his every breath a struggle—and yet, he never gave up. Every heartbeat, every small step forward was a victory. Today, when I see his smile, his laughter, his strength, I’m overwhelmed with pride and gratitude. He reminds me every day that even the smallest fighters can have the biggest heart. He is proof God answers prayers! He is our biggest blessing and greatest testimony!
Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)3 lbs
Weeks Gestation30 Weeks
Time spent in the NICU (Specify Number of Days, Months, or Years)2 Months