A premature miracle: from NICU to Nativity

Four and a half years ago, our world was forever changed when, at just 25 weeks’ pregnant, our son Iwan made an early entrance into the world. Our tiny fighter began his battle for life in the neonatal intensive care unit and was given only a 17% chance of survival. As we reflect on our journey from the first Christmas with our premature baby to this current festive season with a vibrant four-year-old, we can’t help but feel immensely grateful for how far we’ve come.

Tidings of joy

Our first Christmas with our precious boy was a mix of overwhelming emotions. Even though we were navigating the daunting world of home oxygen and getting to grips with being parents of a child with medical needs, we were overjoyed to be at home after an exhausting three-month stay on various neonatal units. However, an impending surgery loomed, and we were crestfallen when our little fighter’s operation date came through for 22 December. A huge shadow was cast over our eagerly anticipated first Christmas at home and the run-up to the festive period was filled with anxiety and fear instead of the joy we had pictured.

Driving home for Christmas

Thankfully, the surgery was a success and as night fell on Christmas Eve, we were discharged. The realisation that we would be waking up on Christmas morning in the warmth of our own bed, free from the confines of hospital walls, made our hearts swell with happiness. The journey home will be etched on our memories forever; holding hands, feeling immensely grateful and playing Driving home for Christmas on repeat. Sometimes the smallest moments can bring you the most joy. We may not have had the picture-perfect first Christmas with our son, but it was more than magical in its own way.

Festive fun

Fast forward to the present day, and our once delicate preemie is now a vibrant, enthusiastic four-year-old, eagerly embracing life at school. The joy in his eyes as he excitedly recounts tales from his day, the friendships he's forming, and the milestones he's achieving, fill our hearts with immeasurable pride. Each day is a triumph, a testament to his resilience and the dedicated care he received from the incredible medical professionals along his journey.

With each festive season over the past four years, we have forged new traditions and created beautiful memories. Our turbulent start to family life seems like a lifetime ago. The only lingering reminder of how vulnerable our boy still is, is that familiar preemie parent fear of our little one falling prey to winter viruses that inevitably circulate at this time of year. Yet, in the face of this anxiety, our son continues to be a beacon of positivity, embracing each day with unwavering enthusiasm. His infectious spirit teaches us the invaluable lesson of finding joy in the present moment, no matter the circumstances.

Shining bright

This Christmas, our hearts swelled with pride as we watched Iwan take part in his first nativity play at school (below). The sparkle in his eyes as he donned his sheep costume and took to the stage, singing and dancing, was a magical moment we’ll treasure forever. It was a momentous occasion, marking not only his growth, but also our journey as parents – from the intensive care unit to being a captive audience in the school hall.

As we look ahead to the coming year, our hopes are as boundless as the love we feel for our son. We hope for continued health and strength, for laughter to echo through our home, and for the sparkle in his eyes to never dim. We aspire for milestones to be reached, friendships to blossom, and for each day to be filled with the simple joys of childhood.

Magical moments

More than anything, we hope that our story can be a source of inspiration and solace for other parents navigating the unpredictable path of prematurity. Through the highs and lows, the triumphs and setbacks, there is a resilient spirit within every child, and a love that knows no bounds in every parent's heart. You may not be facing the Christmas you dreamed of, but hopefully you will still be able to find some magic, even in the smallest of moments.

With thanks to Abby for sharing Iwan’s story.