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My oldest son Scott was born in 1997 at 25 weeks gestation. He was 1 lb. 8 oz. We were told, at his birth, to expect him to have severe mental retardation, physical disabilities, and probably would not be in "normal" school. Well, Scott is a wonderful caring 7 year old. He has no problems what so ever. Most people are shocked to find out he was a preemie. He is doing great in school, and loves to cook. Scott has a lot of ups and downs in the NICU, he had laser sugery on both eyes (he doesn't miss a thing!!!), hernia repair, heart surgery. The only lasting effects are his scars, two of which will have to be revised once he is done growing. Thanks for this great site.

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Our son Ryan was born at 26 weeks. He weighed only 1 lb 9 oz and could fit in our hands. I remember that he was hooked up to several machines and it was hard to see him like that. Everyday was touch and go...and at the same time every minute was a miracle to me. He had several surgeries before he was a month old and I remember wondering how can something so little have to much strength? At the time the doctors weren't sure what we could expect and were always preparing us for the worst. After about 5 months in the hospital he got to come home and he has proven to be a miracle every single day. They didn't think that he would walk or talk or do anything that a "normal" child could do. Now he is almost 3 years old and with the exception of not having perfect vision he is doing great. He has shown tremendous strength and persistance and I know that the would will be his when he is older. He is amazing!!!!

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not very good with computers but think your web site is great i gave bith to twins 1 girl 1 boy 3 weeks ago ben and rosie ben weight 860 grams and rosie 726 grams can 't belive unci unit it is great and i feel very confident leaving my babies there i just wish i could spend more than 2 hours a day with them they have both put on weight and seem to be growin ben has a small bleed on his brain greade 1 so hopefully it will not get any worsre they start to test for rop next week can't belive that people go through this every day i have spent a lot of time crying and getting upset but that does not help anybody they are alive and now we will deal with whatever they have day to day if any body needs to talk and they think i can help in any way just e mail when you like xxx cath xxx xxx

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Im 14 going on 15 and I was born premature @ 27 weeks Im a twin @ 2 Ibs 6 onzes I was a triplet but she died 1 weeks after she was born.. I have no problems in life with difficulties or anything even though I had 3 bleeds on the brain when I was premature... Im happy and not struggling with everything... Im lucky to not have any problems and very happy to of survied... I would of liked to think Natalie was able to survive and live a normal life like me and my siter are.. I miss you our angel up in the sky... Bless you xxxx

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My name is Theresa. I was born at 25 weeks, and I weighed 1 lb 11 ounces. I am 18 years old, and graduating from high school this year. Throughout my high school career I have been very active in many things sports, drama, National Honor Soc. ect. I just want everyone to know that even if you have a premature child or you are born premature it is possible to live a "normal" life! I think this site is awesome!

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My mother wrote this poem about my son Landon who was born at 22 weeks 5 days gestational age. He is our little miracle!!! He is now 13 months old and is doing Awesome! In the words of my occupational therapist, "Landon you are as normal as a child can be!" Here is the poem: In the image of God, his form began to unfold, A baby boy would bring blessings untold. The gift of life by God's great hand, Sketched and drawn from His own plan July twenty-seventh was his arrival date,but on March twenty-eight, he could not wait. Odds of survival were nil to none, At twenty-two weeks, little could be done. The doctor's brush dipped in sadness and gloom, Painted a picture of impending doom. Panic and fear hung thick in the air, as Mom and Dad fought off despair. The doctor continued with an infallible voice, coaxing the parents to concede his choice. A tiny baby he'd deliver, wrap snuggly and warm, Then allow him to pass in his Mother's arm. Sounds of hopeful hearts breaking in two, Gave rise to prayers, "God what should we do?" Divinely the brush was snatched from the doctor's hand, Who had sketched and drawn from his own plan. For the gift of life by God's great hand, Can not be challenged by the choice of man. In the image of God, so perfect and free, Landon Luke Hebert, Is a miracle, O Lord from thee. Poem by Susie B. Massicot