My wife went into preterm labor at 22 weeks. The doctors said that if she went then they would not survive, so the plan was to admit her for the duration of her pregnancy. To make a long story short, she was only able to make it another three weeks. But I am happy to say that three weeks made all the difference in the world.

On September 8, 2001 Katelyn Ashleigh and Brandon Daniel were born. Each weighed 1 pound, 8 ounces and were admitted directly to the NICU where I am happy to say five weeks later, the little tikes are thriving. They haven't gained a lot of weight but we are told that will come with time. They are, however, over the 2-pound mark now. Neither one shows any signs of problems. Their brain scans were negative. Their first eye exam was done yesterday and I am happy to say it was also negative for both. They are taking in a good supply of food and everyday seem to be getting better. They have had to have some blood, but other than breathing support (which is being weaned), they are absolutely doing fantastic. All indications are for each of them to be healthy children. We expect them to be in the NICU for another six to eight weeks and hopefully we will have them home by the new year. Although we know preemies born this early can turn on a dime, we are very fortunate. They are doing better than a lot of the near full-termers are.

So for all who may experience this in the future, there is hope for children born before 28 weeks. Thank God.