MILES FOR SMILES

Diagnosis: Premature Birth

Age at Diagnosis: Birth

Current Age: 22 years old

 

Alex W.'s story, as told by his mother, Becky:

 

We were experiencing a pretty “normal” pregnancy - until week 30. That’s when my water broke and the adventure began. At week 31, after a prolapsed cord, an ambulance ride the day after an ice storm (with an EMT who also worked at CHKD), and an emergency C-section, Alex made his appearance at a whopping 3 pounds, 12 ounces.

 

I had to stay at Maryview Hospital; however, a CHKD ambulance transported Alex to CHKD. Alex's father, Steve, made many trips a day back and forth through the Midtown Tunnel between the hospitals to see Alex and to update me on how he was doing until I was discharged and able to see him four days later.

 

When Alex was first admitted we were told that white males had the lowest survival rate for preemies; however, there was no doubt in our minds he was going to be okay. We knew he was getting the best care and that we were so lucky CHKD was so close. Alex was treated for 29 days between the NICU at CHKD and the NICU at NGH.

 

The staff was wonderful! They were so patient and explained everything (sometimes more than once) so we understood what was going on and what to expect. Alex came home from the hospital on Valentine’s Day but CHKD was still a big part of our lives for several years.

 

He underwent two surgeries and numerous follow-up appointments with specialists through CHKD‘s cardiology, urology, genetics and ophthalmology departments.

 

Twenty-two years later Alex is a Senior at ODU and working toward his degree in Computer Science. Without CHKD - from the first encounter through the EMT, to all the doctors, nurses, and staff - we know there could be a very different outcome and we are truly blessed to have CHKD been a part of our lives.