Ella

Child's Birth Year
2022

State/Province/Territory
Connecticut

NICU Hospital for my journey
Hospital of Central Connecticut

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Ella came 2 months early and spent 59 days in the NICU overcoming brain bleeds, infections, and a respiratory issue nobody could figure out. She was on high doses of caffeine constantly to help her little body remember to breathe. There were days in a 30 minute snuggle session she would stop breathing 10 times. Our little warrior never gave up as she grew and fought her way out of the NICU. The respiratory problems followed her home, but she has continued to fight every battle places in front of her. We found out she had a deformed trachea when she was finally old enough for a surgery at 1 year old. She has fought through low muscle tone and delayed gross motor. She has had endless trips to the doctor and hospital, but each one with a smile on her face.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
No matter how big the hurdle has been, Ella has found her way over it. She has an unwavering strength that amazes me every day. She goes into the doctors office now and reminds her of how to use her instruments. She knows she can’t run as fast as her friends but it doesn’t stop her. She has given me strength on the days I didn’t have any.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
2 lbs 6 oz

Weeks Gestation
31 weeks 5 days

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