Mateo

Child's Birth Year
2021

State/Province/Territory
New York

NICU Hospital for my journey
Sister’s Hospital

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Mateo broke my water at 34 weeks, but wouldn’t dilate. He was born by emergency C-section on April 5th, 2021. Mom ended up getting COVID pneumonia in recovery so he was in the company of the NICU staff for his first two weeks. He spent a total of 5 and a half weeks in the NICU basically coming out on his due date. He was born with a heart murmur, issues with blood was taken basically every day (his doctor said he’s only seen it a handful of times after being a doctor for over 20 years), and problems with larynx after being intubated after birth. This poor guy basically saw every specialty doctor under the sun after he was released from the NICU. Eventually one by one he slowly was discharged from each one. He had sleep studies, multiple tests, and even had his tonsils and adenoids out at two! This guy didn’t have a normal stay and ended up being in the hospital for 3 nights. He’s been through all kinds of scares and is still standing. He’s so strong and being here with him through all of this has made me one strong mama!

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
He’s overcome so much from day one. He’s so smart and continues to amaze me every day. He’s not only the strongest little boy I know, but the strongest human being. Mateo is my rock and keeps me going every single day. He’s changed my life in so many and has inspired me to do better. I’m a better person because of him. He’s the most helpful, most polite child you’ll ever meet. He helps family members and is always concerned that everyone is okay. He takes care of others like a grown adult would. If you are having a bad day you can always count on him to cheer you up and give you a hug. He loves animals and takes care of them with the utmost care. I’m truly amazed and blessed that this sweet little boy is my son.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
5 lbs

Weeks Gestation
34 weeks

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