November is “Prematurity Awareness Month” and the march of dimes website has a whole section of their site dedicated to babies born too early.
Our son was born at 24 weeks 1 day gestation weighing only 675 grams (1lb 7oz). At his lowest weight he was 490 grams, which is just an ounce over a pound. We were very lucky that our son was able to come home just 3 days after his official due date. Many parents we met stayed at the hospital much longer than we did.
Most people are not aware of what I call the “Secret World Of The NICU”. You cannot go and see the babies in there unless you are invited by their parents. Most people have only ever seen a micro-preemie [defined as a baby that is under 1 3/4 pounds (between 700-800 grams) and is generally born before 26 weeks gestation, but most people prefer to loosen this term up to include any baby under 3 pounds (1500 grams) or under 29 weeks gestation] in pictures.
During the month of November I will be profiling special babies who beat the odds of prematurity and are still fighting to develop each day!!
Please do what you can to support an organization that is leading the campaign to reduce premature birth by supporting research and by educating the public and health care providers.
