They are calling it the "Miracle Baby"

(This is old news, but this is the first chance I have had to post on it).



Baby Amillia (pictured above, courtesy of CNN), born in Florida, an ex- 21 weeker has finally gone home. She was born on October 24 just under 22 weeks gestation and went home recently. She is referred to as the "Miracle Baby."

Following in vitro fertilization, the mother began experiencing complications that have not been disclosed. According to NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation Program) guidelines, no resuscitation attempts are made to neonates under 23 weeks. In this particular case there was confusion on the dates. The doctors believed the baby to be at least 23 weeks and proceeded with the c-section, but the fertility specialist was later able pinpoint the exact date of fertilization.. and surprise, she wasn't even 22 weeks! It may not sound like a long time to us.. it is only a week, right? As fetus' are developing, every single day is important. Usually according to standards, an infant is not considered viable before the age of 23 weeks gestation.

"Doctors say Amillia is among the few babies known to have survived after a gestation of fewer than 22 weeks," (CNN).
She was born weighing less than 10 oz, 9.5 in long. Currently weighing 4.5 lbs.

Throughout her short life so far she has been plagued with respiratory issues, digestive problems, as well as a brain hemorrhage (common in extremely premmature infants). She fought to live. Doctors say that she is doing fine, but that she will continue to need supplemental oxygen after she goes home.
Although there is no way to predict the future or know what type of long term effects being born premature will have on her, her doctors believe that there will be no major long-term effects.