Little Leovani Vera, born at a mere 14.5 ounces (410g), spent a significant period battling in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) before successfully overcoming the odds.
Now, a healthy 14 pounds 8 ounces at 12 months old, Leovani's family is celebrating a milestone they once feared might never happen.
Coke Can-Size Newborn Is Now a Healthy Baby
Weighing a mere 410 grams initially, Leovani, whose father's wedding ring could fit his wrist like a bangle due to his tiny size, battled through a third of a year in the NICU and successfully pulled through.
Now, at 12 months and a healthy weight of 6.5 kilograms, he has achieved a milestone his family once feared might not come to fruition.
Isabel, Leovani's mother, considers him her "little miracle" and describes entering survival mode upon his birth, constantly checking on him even at home through hospital cameras.
Despite initial worries about sharing his weight, Isabel has found support by connecting with other families facing similar situations on social media.
During Isabel's pregnancy in Texas, Leovani's growth slowed, measuring five weeks behind at the 20-week scan. Concerns heightened as it was uncommon for a baby to be significantly undersized this close to birth, with blood flow issues posing a threat to Leovani's nutrition.
Due to these concerns and Isabel's rising blood pressure, doctors recommended immediate delivery in December 2022.
Born at just 14.5 ounces, roughly the weight of a coke can, Leovani spent 127 days in the NICU, where doctors closely monitored his health and weight progression.
Isabel initially hesitated to share his weight out of fear of unsupportive reactions, but she found encouragement after sharing their story online.
Isabel, 32, rarely left Leovani's side, even constantly checking on him through hospital cameras. Reflecting on his growth, Isabel acknowledged the worries during pregnancy, with Leovani measuring five weeks behind at the 20-week scan.
Concerns about his size and Isabel's blood flow cutting off nutrients prompted doctors to express concerns about potential complications.
Fighting spirit of a mom
Premature births, affecting one in 10 babies in the US, pose potential health complications. Leovani's journey involved the dedication of his mother, Isabel Vera, who spent countless hours by his side in the NICU.
Leovani's weight initially caused concerns for Ms. Vera, but connecting with other families on social media going through similar experiences provided support and reassurance.
Facing heightened blood pressure risks in December 2022, Isabel delivered Leovani on the same day, weighing just 410 grams, equivalent to a coke can.
The subsequent 127 days in the NICU ensured close monitoring of his health and weight progression. Initially hesitant to share Leovani's weight, Isabel found support and connection with other families through social media.
Home for 245 days now, Leovani has not only survived but thrived, celebrating his first birthday and achieving milestones like learning to crawl.
Isabel, proud of her son's progress, ensured he had a special birthday celebration with close family and a joyful outing to Chuck E Cheese.
She reflects on the emotional journey, from pleading with doctors for his well-being to the joy of witnessing his first birthday celebration, calling it a full circle moment.
Despite the initial fears, Leovani's first birthday was a joyous occasion. Ms. Vera expressed gratitude for her "miracle" and the joy of having a happy and healthy one-year-old.
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