After spending 4 months in the hospital trying to hold on to my pregnancy, my daughter was born in 1985 at 28 weeks gestation and approx 2 lbs. She had a grade 4 bleed (intraventricular hemorrhage)which caused her Hydrocephalus. She spent months in the hospital and had under developed lungs which had to be operated on.

The list of complications with a premie is long as we all know, and the stress and anexiety for the parents is tremendous. My advice to you is to ALWAYS ask lots of questions of your doctors (you are paying them so get your money's worth!), do lots of reading, and lean on your friends and family for support. You should also know that medical science has come a loonnnggg way since my daughter was born so you are very lucky.

My daughter and I wanted you to know (for those of you that are just starting your journey with your premie) that there are happy endings. She is now 21 years old. Her lungs are healthy and although she did finally require a shunt at the age of 2 and a replacement at the age of 19 (and that is another story in itself!). She is gorgeous, about 5'2", petite and smart. She currently is in her 2nd year of college where she maintains a 3.4 gpa.

These events will change your thoughts about life forever. Things that were important before will be put far down on the list. As a family, we have come to know that there are only 2 important things in life: to enjoy each moment as if it were your last; and to always remember that there is nothing more important than your family and friends.

Well wishes to all of you that have just started your struggles and journey. The road may be bumpy but your love will see it through.