Skyla

Child's Birth Year
2016

State/Province/Territory
North Carolina

NICU Hospital for my journey
Novant Health Presbyterian Hospital

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Skyla’s journey began with unexpected and life-threatening complications before she even entered the world. During pregnancy, a placental abruption occurred, meaning the placenta separated from the uterus too early and reduced the oxygen and nutrients reaching her. This medical emergency led to a traumatic delivery and immediate concerns for her survival and long-term health. From the moment she was born, Skyla faced challenges that no child should have to endure.

Shortly after birth, doctors discovered that Skyla was experiencing neonatal seizures, a sign that her brain had been under significant stress. Further testing revealed brain bleeds, which required close monitoring and specialized medical care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In addition to these neurological complications, Skyla was also born with severe gastrointestinal issues, including a hole in her small intestines that required emergency surgery shortly after birth to repair. Her early days were filled with surgeries, hospital equipment, constant evaluations, and emotional highs and lows for her family.

Despite the fear surrounding her condition, Skyla showed incredible strength and resilience. As she has grown, her journey has continued to involve developmental, educational, and emotional challenges connected to her difficult start in life. Certain concepts may take her longer to grasp, and she benefits from additional support, structured learning approaches, and patience while developing new skills.

Her story is not defined solely by medical complications, but by resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering support of those who love her. Skyla’s journey reflects the reality of overcoming adversity while continuing to grow, learn, and thrive despite difficult

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
What makes me most proud of Skyla is her resilience. From the very beginning, she has fought battles that many people could never imagine. Despite being born after a placental abruption, experiencing neonatal seizures, brain bleeds, and undergoing surgery for a hole in her small intestines, she continues to push forward with strength and determination. Watching her overcome obstacle after obstacle has shown me just how powerful and brave she truly is.

I am proud of the way she keeps trying, even when things are difficult for her. Some tasks and concepts may take her longer to understand, but she never gives up. She continues to learn, grow, smile, and love with such a pure heart. Every milestone she reaches carries extra meaning because of everything she has endured to get there.

Skyla is more than a NICU graduate—she is a survivor, a fighter, and a constant reminder that strength can exist in the smallest

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
4lbs 15oz.

Weeks Gestation
36 weeks

Time spent in the NICU (Specify Number of Days, Months, or Years)
31