Child's Birth Year
2021

State/Province/Territory
Pennsylvania

NICU Hospital for my journey
Janet Weis Children's Hospital

My NICU Graduate's Journey
This is Emmett! Throughout my pregnancy, I was getting non-stress tests for Polyhydramnios. This sweet boy was born at 9:37 at night and had a little surprise waiting for us as he was taken to the NICU and subsequent transfer to Janet Weis. He was born with a tracheoesophageal fistula and an esophageal Atresia. While he was term and otherwise healthy, I’d like to create some awareness around a congenial birth defect that happens to around 1/4,000 babies! I remember how lonely and confused I felt, with it being a rarer birth defect. I just hope that I can help another family feel seen and supported even from far away! Just know it is going to get better, even if it sucks right now. It’s harder than you could ever imagine but you just have to stay strong for your baby, and eventually you’ll have them in your arms and you’ll never have to let go. ❤️‍🩹

What makes you proud of you NICU graduate?
He is now a healthy, happy, on track nearly 4 year old. We had a few issues in the past regarding “stuckies” (food getting stuck in the stricture in his throat from the surgery), but we haven’t had one in a few months now. Not to mention he knows how to fix the problem for the most part, with close super vision of course.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
6lb 14oz

Weeks Gestation
37 weeks

Time spent in the NICU (Specify Number of Days, Months, or Years)
28 days