Child's Birth Year
2020

State/Province/Territory
Virginia

NICU Hospital for my journey
Sentara Norfolk General

My NICU Graduate's Journey
Callan was in the NICU for one week, Rowan for two weeks. It was during the pandemic and it was a scary time for everyone. There were so many things that could had gone wrong for my babies if not for our NICU team. Lung problems were our biggest concern. Both babies were having difficulty with their oxygen levels. Callan was the bigger twin and was a little stronger than Rowan, but he still had to go through a lot in the time he was there with his breathing and concerns about his hearing. Rowan had quite a bit stacked against him with his breathing, jaundice, ability to eat, and his overall tiny size. It was so surreal when I first visited them after they were born to see them sort of limp with little movement. To go from that to almost normal and alert newborn in a week for Callan and two for Rowan was an incredible turnaround.

It was a tough thing to walk through, even for a short time. We had a 3 year old son to go home to so we couldn’t spend every waking moment with the twins, and nothing prepares a parent to have to walk away from their baby even if you know you’ll be back in a few hours. I’m so thankful for all the doctors and nurses who not only cared for them, but loved them when we couldn’t be there.

What makes you proud of you NICU graduate?
Callan and Rowan today are as active as any 3year olds would be. There’s a lot of running, jumping, and squealing with laughter in our home. They love trailing after their big brother, Lachlan, and playing outside. They love bugs with a passion, haha. I’m so proud of Callan because he’s sunshine incarnate. It’s impossible to have a bad day when he’s always quick to give a smile or a hug. Rowan is my little fighter. He’s strong willed and passionate about everything, especially the people he loves. I’m proud of his lion heart.

Both boys love each other deeply and look out for one another. They complete our family in a way I could have never imagined before they were born. They bring so much joy to our lives. I’m forever grateful to the NICU for giving them this chance at an abundant life.

Weight at Birth (lbs. or Grams)
Callan 6lbs1oz Rowan 4lbs3oz

Weeks Gestation
34 weeks

Time spent in the NICU (Specify Day, Month, or Year)
Callan 1 week, Rowan two weeks