Kale'a

Child's Birth Year
2019

State/Province/Territory
Hawaii

NICU Hospital for my journey
Kaiser Moanalua

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Kale'a was born at 1lb 11.5oz and spent 163 in the NICU and defied every obstacle that was thrown at her. From multiple surgeries that left her with an ostomy bag, an illness setback that left her unable to eat, and many diagnoses that we thought brought us closer to answers that only left us more confused…she was truly the most resilient and joyful baby through it all. Her journey was remarkable and when doctors finally found a treatment to help, her gut healed beautifully and she came home to us on Father’s Day. A special moment in our lives that we’ll never forget.

What makes you proud of your NICU graduate?
As her parents we’ve been proud of every milestone because we know how much time and effort it takes her to get there. Nothing comes easy for Kale'a and being a preemie came with fine and gross motor challenges. After the NICU, she graduated from early intervention but the work didn’t stop. To continue building her strength she tried gymnastics and then dance and fell in love with hip hop! Watching her perform and shine her light on stage is special because we know the journey to get here wasn’t easy. She never compares herself to others and shows up as she is! A fierce, tiny but mighty girl with a positive spirit. She is so creative through her movement and personal style and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for our dancing diva.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
1lb 11.5oz

Weeks Gestation
29 weeks

Time spent in the NICU (Specify Number of Days, Months, or Years)
163