Riley

Child's Birth Year
2025

State/Province/Territory
Massachusetts

NICU Hospital for my journey
Boston Children's Hospital

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Riley was born at 37 weeks with a previously undiagnosed Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), where his intestine, colon, and spleen migrated to his chest. He was transported to Boston children's at 12hrs. He had surgery at 10 days old to repair his diaphragm. Recovery felt slow, but Riley is a fighter and exceeded the surgery team's expectations for how quick he would recover! After 78 days, he got to come home. He was still on supplemental oxygen, but all formula was taken orally! Now, he is a happy, spunky 8 month old who loves to play and meet new friends!

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
I am so proud of Riley for always being a fighter and overcoming every obstacle he meets. From pulling out his own breathing tube (signaling he didn't need it) to scooting across the floor on his back (finding his own way around), Riley is determined to make the world work for him!

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
6lb 4oz

Weeks Gestation
37 Weeks

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