Waverly

Child's Birth Year
2020

State/Province/Territory
North Carolina

NICU Hospital for my journey
Duke University Hospital

My NICU Graduate's Journey
From the very beginning, Waverly’s NICU journey showed us what true strength looks like. When she entered the world earlier and more fragile than we ever imagined, our lives changed instantly. Instead of bringing our baby girl home right away, we learned the rhythm of hospital life — the constant beeping of monitors, late-night phone calls to nurses, and the emotional rollercoaster of hope, fear, and prayer.

The NICU became our second home. We celebrated milestones many parents never have to think twice about a steady heartbeat, gaining a few ounces, finishing a feeding, and finally being able to hold her without so many wires attached. Every tiny victory felt monumental. Through it all, the nurses and doctors cared for Waverly with such compassion that they became part of our story forever.

What amazed us most was Waverly herself. Even at her smallest, she fought with a strength that inspired everyone around her. She showed us resilience before she could even speak. That tiny little girl who once fit so carefully in our arms is now thriving, growing, laughing, and filling our lives with more joy than we could have imagined.

Waverly’s journey reminds us that miracles are often quiet, fragile, and incredibly brave. The NICU experience changed our family forever, but it also gave us a deeper appreciation for every moment, every milestone, and every heartbeat. We could not be prouder of our NICU graduate and the beautiful little fighter she has become.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
What makes us most proud of Waverly is her incredible bravery and resilience. From the very beginning, she has faced countless doctor appointments, therapies, procedures, and surgery with a strength far beyond her years. Even during difficult moments, Waverly continues to face every challenge with courage, positivity, and determination.

What amazes us most is that she has never lost her joyful spirit. Waverly loves to laugh, make others smile, and bring happiness to everyone around her. She is kind, loving, and has a wisdom that feels so rare in someone so young. Despite everything she has overcome, she continues to move through life with hope and light.

Watching Waverly grow stronger has been one of the greatest privileges of our lives. Her journey has taught us so much about perseverance, gratitude, and unconditional love. We are endlessly proud of the brave, joyful, and extraordinary little girl she is becoming every single

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
2lbs 3 oz.

Weeks Gestation
28 weeks

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