Meet Champion, Christian

When Christian’s mom developed preeclampsia at 33.5 weeks, an emergency C-section saved both their lives. Weighing just 3 lbs. 9 oz., Christian was immediately intubated and placed on oxygen in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where a full team of specialists cared for him during his 22-day stay. Christian received treatment for jaundice, relied on a feeding tube, and worked with physical, occupational, and speech therapists to support his sensory, motor, and feeding skills. His parents were cautioned that he might need a feeding tube long-term and could face milestone delays. But Christian had other plans. Since leaving the NICU, he has not only grown without needing a feeding tube but has met or exceeded every milestone along the way. Now a healthy and active 2-year-old, Christian loves gymnastics, sports, and keeping up with his older cousins, a joyful reminder of the power of expert care.