As I geared up for my vacation, I couldn't resist sneaking in one last visit to the NICU. There's something about those little fighters that just pulls you in. And this time, I found myself drawn to the story of this tiny champ who decided to make an early entrance into the world – a whopping 12 weeks before his due date!
His arrival wasn't exactly smooth sailing, thanks to his mom developing HELLP syndrome, which meant it was all hands on deck for an emergency C-section. But let me tell you, this little dude has been giving it his all since day one. From tipping the scales at a mere 2.01 pounds to now weighing in at a respectable 3 pounds, 10 ounces, he's been on a steady upward climb.
And let's talk about his journey through the NICU gadgets and gizmos – from the big, bad intubation to navigating his way through NAVA, C-pap, and finally settling in with low-flow oxygen through nasal prongs. It's like watching a tiny superhero conquer each level of a video game!
Next up on his agenda? Learning the fine art of bottle feeding. I mean, can you imagine anything cuter than a mini milk connoisseur in training? It's all part of the grand plan to get him one step closer to busting out of the NICU and heading home where he belongs.
But you know what's really stuck with me throughout all of this? The families. Man, they're something else. Through all the ups and downs, they tackle each day with a mix of grit and grace that's downright inspiring. They make the impossible look like a walk in the park, and I'm just grateful to be along for the ride, cheering them on every step of the way.
Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer in North Oaks, Minnesota. She photographs children and their families both on location and in her studio in Northeast Minneapolis. To schedule your next session with Michele please visit mQn Photography | Twin Cities Photographer or e-mail michele@mqnphotography.com
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