John L. ~ Super Hero Alias: Baby John
Age: 1 year old
Weight at Birth: 4 pounds 7 ounces
Weeks Gestation: 32 weeks
Time in the NICU: 4 weeks
Diagnosis, complications, surgeries?
Placental Abruption with Emergency C-section, Down’s Syndrome-Trisomy 21, Hypotonia (low-muscle tone), Adenoid removal surgery, Plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome)
Why should your child be recognized as “Preemie of the Year”?
John Ryleigh has fought for his life from week 4 of gestation, with a very complicated pregnancy.This angel was determined to come early and grace us with his presence.He survived a placental abruption with an emergency c-section. JR was diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome and was struggling with his hypotonia. He became a superbaby in the NICU fighting to accomplish everything quickly,so he could go home and be with mommy and daddy just after 4 wks. Now,1 year old, JR has been seen by 9 specialists, to clear him of any future problems. He fights to gain strength at PT & OT weekly & accomplishes more and more each day. He is the most determined child,who tries to crawl before he can hold his head up,who tries to walk before he can sit.Anyone who meets John Ryleigh is awarded the biggest and brightest smile ever seen! He is the happiest lil angel & will be proud to show you. JR is always remembered and becomes famous whereever he goes!.
Using three or more typical characteristics of a Super Hero, please describe your child.
John Ryleigh is my hero each and everyday. He has accomplished more is his 12 month life than I can imagine. Parents take for granted the “simple” achievements that their kiddos accomplish by themselves, but John Ryleigh has to learn each thing one-by-one, day-by-day. For example, the simple task of raising his arms was not so simple for him. Being preemie with Down’s with hypotonia made these tasks difficult,where he had to be taught how to use each and every muscle before accomplishing anything. His perseverance has led him to accomplish many milestones in his life. The brave John Ryleigh, faces life with more strength, courage and heart than anyone has ever seen. He is a blessing to our life and an angel to anyone he has ever met.
What advice do you have for future NICU parents?
Hang-in there and trust in the nurses and doctors. Research all you can youself, so you will feel more comfortable with all that happens.
