Gatlin

Child's Birth Year
2024

State/Province/Territory
Kentucky

NICU Hospital for my journey
Norton Children’s Hospiral

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Our sweet boy was born at 30 weeks 6 days and spent 53 days in the NICU. He started on CPAP shortly after birth, but later needed to be intubated to receive surfactant to help his tiny lungs. From there, he slowly made progress and was eventually switched to high flow oxygen.

We celebrated every milestone along the way, no matter how small. He trialed room air multiple times, but continued having events, so we ultimately came home on oxygen. Although it wasn’t the homecoming we had originally imagined, we were beyond grateful to finally have our baby home with us.

The NICU journey was one of the hardest experiences of our lives, filled with fear, uncertainty, prayers, and hope. Through it all, our little fighter showed incredible strength and resilience every single day. Watching him continue to grow, thrive, and overcome obstacles has been the greatest blessing. He will always be our miracle and a reminder of just how strong premature babies truly are.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
I’m proud of how incredibly strong and resilient my NICU graduate is. From the very beginning, he fought through every obstacle thrown his way with more strength than I could’ve ever imagined. Watching such a tiny baby overcome breathing struggles, procedures, and long NICU days showed me just how much courage can fit into such a little body.

Now seeing him grow, smile, learn, and thrive after everything he’s been through makes me proud every single day. He reminds me constantly that even the smallest fighters can overcome the biggest battles.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
3lbs 5oz

Weeks Gestation
30 weeks 6 days

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