Welcome Preemie Wednesday, 10/14

Meet Emerson!

Emerson was a preemie born at just 26 weeks!

“On August 7, 2017 in Tampa, FL, I experienced the most traumatic and special days of my life when my son, Emerson, was born early at 26-weeks. Emerson was intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR), so I had been going to the perinatal specialists for a few weeks, and knew he would likely be delivered early (due to the danger of him being stillborn if not), but I never thought he would be this early. He came into the world via emergency c-section and changed our lives forever. He was 1lbs 1.5 oz. Little did we know, we were in for a 191-day stay between the NICU and PICU. After 4 months of living in the NICU, Emerson was transferred to the PICU where doctors continued trying to determine if he would need a tracheostomy.

I will never forget the NICU doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists at St. Joseph's Women's Hospital as well as the PICU doctors, PAs, nurses, and respiratory therapists at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital. Emerson received the most amazing care throughout his 191-day stay, and my husband and I received so much support as well. We are forever grateful for everyone who played a part in us bringing Emerson home, and continue to keep in touch with many of those amazing medical professionals.”

-Marshella- (Emerson’s Mother)