Gabriel Hoeme

Child's Birth Year
2013

State/Province/Territory
Missouri

NICU Hospital for my journey
Cox Medical Center South

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Gabe was born at 28 weeks due to my water breaking at 16 weeks. I was in and out of the hospital on strict bed rest during that 12 week period. When he was born, his lungs had not developed so he had to have several different breathing treatments to help him breath and develop. He was on oxygen for 3 months after he graduated from the NICU after an 80 day stay. Today, he is strong, healthy, and very energetic. He's extremely smart, reading at a 12th grade level in 6th grade.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
I'm so proud of my son because he is always upbeat and positive. He's so very smart and is always reading. He reads at a senior in high school level in the 6th grade. He's been so helpful around the house and helping me after my cancer diagnosis. He accompanied me to my last round of chemo, and stood with me to ring the bell. He's also always ready for a hug, and an "I love you, Mom". Steals my heart every day.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
2 lbs 9oz

Weeks Gestation
28 weeks

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