NICU nurses, Taylor and Drew Deras, unexpectedly met their soon-to-be child when a premature baby girl in the hosptial ward they are assigned was rushed for urgent care.
In the intensive care unit (NICU) of Methodist Women's Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, Taylor and Drew Deras, both seasoned nurses, share a remarkable bond forged by their dedication to caring for fragile newborns.
Their journey took an unexpected turn when they crossed paths with Ella, a premature baby born at just 23 weeks and 1 day, during Taylor's shifts at the NICU.
NICU Nurses Meet Their Soon-To-Be Child
Ella's early days were filled with uncertainty as she navigated critical health battles, spending months in the NICU under the watchful care of Taylor and her colleagues.
"She was at the very edge of being able to survive, essentially," recalled Drew, highlighting the precariousness of Ella's condition.
However, Ella's fighting spirit prevailed as she gradually conquered multiple health obstacles, transitioning from intensive medical support to more stable care, including bottle feeding and minimal oxygen assistance.
As Ella's progress became a beacon of hope in the NICU, the Derases received news that she had become a ward of the state in December 2021.
Drawn to Ella's resilience and spirit, Taylor expressed a deep desire to be part of her journey, despite the daunting challenges ahead.
This pivotal moment sparked a profound decision for Taylor and Drew, who decided to extend their care beyond the hospital walls by becoming Ella's foster parents.
Their decision was rooted in a deep sense of love and connection, transforming their roles from dedicated caregivers to devoted parents.
"I loved her as my patient, and then once we became foster parents, I loved her as my own child," shared Taylor, reflecting on the emotional journey.
The Derases' story resonates as a testament to the power of compassion and the extraordinary lengths healthcare professionals go to in nurturing and advocating for their patients.
Ella's journey, from a fragile newborn in the NICU to a cherished member of a loving family, embodies the resilience and hope that define the human spirit.
Adoption Journey of the Premature Baby Ella
The Derases were officially approved as Ella's foster parents from December 2021 until November 2023, marking a transformative period in their lives.
Reflecting on their journey as foster parents, Drew Deras, 34, expressed how the initial barriers of attachment dissolved as they embraced their role in Ella's life.
"As a foster parent, it was like shedding the protective guard against falling in love with someone else's child. We realized that this child needs us as much as we need her," Drew shared, describing the profound shift in their hearts.
Their commitment to Ella never wavered, with the Derases standing steadfastly by her side through her hospital discharge on April 7, 2022.
This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter as they transitioned from fostering to adoption.
On November 18, 2023, coinciding with National Adoption Day, the Derases officially welcomed Ella into their family through adoption.
The significance of this day was not lost on them, as they cherished the moment when the judge declared Ella their own.
Taylor Deras described it as a long-awaited dream come true, while Drew likened the joy to their wedding day, emphasizing its unparalleled significance in their lives.
Today, Ella thrives with a vibrant personality, making remarkable progress in her development.
Taylor joyfully shared, "She's reaching milestones that mirror those of a typical 2-year-old, walking, talking, and preparing for preschool in the fall."
The Derases consider themselves fortunate to have Ella as their "miracle" daughter, recognizing the profound impact adoption has had on their lives.
Their message of encouragement to others contemplating adoption is rooted in their own experiences, urging perseverance and a listening heart for the many children in need of loving homes.
