Francesca

Child's Birth Year
2024

State/Province/Territory
Georgia

NICU Hospital for my journey
Grady Memorial Hospital

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Born at 34 weeks, Francesca’s journey was a masterclass in resilience. She spent her first weeks in an incubator, relying on external heat so her body could focus entirely on growing. She fought through the 'suck-swallow-breathe' hurdle, learning to coordinate feeding while weaning off oxygen support. Every ounce she gained was a hard-won victory. Today, at 20 months, she isn't just 'catching up'—she is leading the way with the same grit that got her out of that isolette and into our arms.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
​I am beyond proud of Francesca for her incredible "warrior" spirit. From her first breath, she fought through every medical hurdle, turning a world of beeps and wires into a life of joy and curiosity. At 20 months, watching her thrive and hit milestones that were once distant dreams is a daily testament to her survival instinct and the "grit" she developed as a newborn. Our bond was forged in the NICU, and today, she is the perfect example of "tiny but mighty"—a true survivor who proves there is beautiful sunshine after the storm.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
4lbs 3oz

Weeks Gestation
34

Time spent in the NICU (Specify Number of Days, Months, or Years)
21