Luke

Child's Birth Year
2021

State/Province/Territory
Ohio

NICU Hospital for my journey
University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Childrens

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Born via emergency csection due to elevated blood pressure and decreased heart rate. Wasn't crying or breathing, and was immediately intubated. Doctors said he had an undiagnosed left sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Liver, small intestine, and large intestine had moved to his chest cavity, causing his heart and lungs to delay in development. Hernia repair surgery at 5 days old. Coded twice while on a ventilator in the NICU. Was in the NICU for 32 days. Now 5 years old, in preschool, and one of the most energetic, lovable, fearless boy I know.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
He wasn't breathing when he was born. The first time I heard him cry was one of the happiest moments of my life. He's now an energetic, fearless, active, stubborn, lovable, smartest kid who is incredibly empathetic and strong. He's been a fighter since before he was born.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
6 lbs

Weeks Gestation
38 weeks

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