Brody C. ~ Super Hero Alias: Brave Brody Bear

Age: 5 months old
Weight at Birth: 2 lb 7 oz
Weeks Gestation: 26 weeks
Time in the NICU: 110 days

Diagnosis, complications, surgeries?
PPROM at 17 weeks gestation; possible NEC, inconclusive but treated; staph infection; chronic lung disease; inguinal hernia; and silent aspiration.

Why should your child be recognized as “Preemie of the Year”?

Brody was a super hero before he was born.  I had Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) at 17 weeks gestation resulting in severely low amniotic fluid.  Doctors told us that there was an 85% chance that I would go into premature labor within two weeks, and babies could not survive at that gestation.  Because there was a possibility of maternal infection, the doctor said that termination may be necessary.  But, like a super hero, he survived the following two weeks and continued to grow.  Brody defied the odds even as the volume of amniotic fluid dropped, even as our fears increased of immature lung development.  At 24 weeks gestation, I checked into the hospital to continue bed rest.  Brody continued to amaze the doctors and grew in the safety of the womb for another two weeks, four days.

When the contractions started, I was filled with anxiety and wondering whether the 26 weeks, 4 days was long enough to save his life.  Was there enough amniotic fluid for his lungs to develop adequately?  Did his other organs have enough time to develop properly?  He is a super hero, and he survived and became a superstar in the NICU.  After only two days on the ventilator, the doctors switched him to the CPAP.  Except for a worrisome 10 days when an infection weakened him and put him back on the ventilator, Brody grew stronger and healthier.

While in the NICU, his sweet, cuddly nature charmed the nurses, doctors and all who cared for him.  He had endured more needles, heel pricks, spinal taps,  the works in a few months than I have had in my lifetime.  Now at home, he captivates all with just a glance, and brings joy to all he meets.   He is the epitome of a miracle.  This journey with Brody taught me how precious life is, and I cannot wait to see everything that his life will contribute to this world.  Even before he was born, he helped me see the goodness in humanity – the kindness and generosity of so many countless people that provided support without being asked.  Brody’s miraculous life has given me the gift of hope and promise.   I hope his story brings this gift to other families facing similar circumstances.

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