The Guestbook at Tommy's CyberNursery Preemie Web site -- Archive 26

The most recent 3 messages posted appear in the Living Room before being archived.  Your contribution to this guestbook would be appreciated!

We are parents of a preemie, born at 28 weeks (due to my severe preeclampsia). Her name is Lauryn Grace and weighed 1 lb 14 oz and was 13 inches. Her birth date is 10/16/00 and her due date was 1/6/01. She spent 6 weeks in the NICU and was just moved to the step-down nursery this week. Everything in your web site was very familiar stuff. We are just very anxious to get her home and continue to pray that she will recover from her early birth without any problems. It was nice to read your story and the stories from others. Best wishes.

Matt & Cathi Rochelle - Havelock - NC - USA -
Wednesday, November 29th, 2000 at 10:51 am

Your website is gonna give us encouragement to push through our situation with our preemie son. Currently my wife is in Madison hospital on bed rest and has been there for 3 weeks. Lots of ups and downs and probably have more to contend with. The doctors say one thing bad and then suddenly our baby is doing good.

I believe God is answering our prayers and both my wife and my son will be home safe and sound. God bless you. Ron & Tanya

Ronald Hohensee - Janesville - WI - USA -
Saturday, November 25th, 2000 at 7:59 pm

I have a son Sean who was born Sept. 13 10 weeks premature. He is supposed to be discharged from the Special care nursery on Monday. Do you know of any chat rooms or books related to what to expect after we leave the hospital.

Your web site is great!

Thank you Kristen Curran

kris curran - Danvers - MA - USA -
Saturday, November 18th, 2000 at 7:30 pm

I just came across your web page. I also had a preemie. Kassidy was born at 27 weeks weighing 1 lb. 7 oz. and 12.5 inches long. She was in the ICN for 79 days. It was a long worrisome time. Wondering how she would end up-blind, cerebral palsy, lung problems.... It was stressful on all including big sister at home. We tried to be with her every day (only missed 2) We lived 60 miles from the hospital. Now today looking at my wonderful, active 3 year old-- I cannot believe it! She is truly a miracle!

kristen - - SD - usa -
Saturday, November 18th, 2000 at 5:43 pm

Thank you very much for sharing your experience. My wife is 22 weeks and was admitted yesterday with bleeding. The Doctor has begun top prepare us for a long stay in the hospital to prevent or slow any type of abruption that they cannot see, but that is probable. Of course she (the Doctor) needs to share the "statistics" and usually the worse side of the statistics. So, we are worried. It's midnight right now, and I ran home to do some quick research on the net and came accross your page (Tommy's page). This is all still sinking in yet, and we have the luxury right now of some time to let it sink in..... Your page gives us some hope to offset those horrible thoughts that go through one's mind during a time like this. Thank you! Jim and Cathy Erenzo Arlington, Texas 11/16/2000

Jim Erenzo - Arlington - TX - -
Thursday, November 16th, 2000 at 9:54 pm

My name is Jennifer Wisco and Iam the mother of a one week old preemie who was 7 weeks early ,weighing 3lbs 1oz and I want to thank you for sharing your story it is very helpfull and helped to put my mind at ease. As of right now Kane my son is doing wonderful and is off the oxygen and starting to gain a little bit of weight. Thank You ,\ Jenny

Jennifer Wisco - Maquoketa - IA - USA -
Tuesday, November 14th, 2000 at 2:05 pm

Jennifer Wisco - Maquoketa - - -
Tuesday, November 14th, 2000 at 1:59 pm

I am a twenty-year old mother. I have been married over a year now. I had my son Ethan, on May 30, 2000. I had a great time carrying him. When it was time for him to be delivered the doctor didn't show. Ethan was stuck in the birth canal for 16 hours, Finally the doctor came to pull him out with forceps. When he was delivered he was purple his heart beat was at 80 beats per minute and he couldn't breathe. He was flow to Children's hospital in Columbus, Oh. Here he was on a ventilator for13 days. He finally graduated from nicu. In the step down unit they were planning to give him a Gee- tube, GOD TOUCHED HIM. And now he eats by mouth. A few days later we found out Ethan had lost oxygen to his brain. He vision is somewhat damaged. And we are still not sure what else is. I have only heard Ethan cry a few times. If there are any parents out there who have a baby that doesn't cry, PLEASE I BEG OF YOU TO CONTACT ME. E-MAIL ME AT ETHAN@EKNS.NET OR GETAWAY95@YAHOO.COM. My prayers are with you TOMMY and your family. GOD BLESS YOU>

Jesica TackettI - - - -
Monday, November 13th, 2000 at 7:38 pm

I saw your site while I was browsing I am a pediatrics resident and I have an idea on what parents feel about having kids like your Tommy when he was in the NICU I will definitely recommend ur site to future parents in our NICU Good luck for Tommy !!!!!!

maurice - Beirut - - Lebanon -
Saturday, November 11th, 2000 at 12:33 am

It was so wonderful to see these pics of Tommy. We are possibly adopting a preemie baby girl. She is 2lbs 8oz right now and doing great. However she is in Texas and we haven't even been able to see her yet!! Hopefully soon! What an encouragement these pages have been. Thank You! Also I saw Mackinaw Island mentioned. We are only about 3 hrs. from there and camp at Mill Creek often! Again, thank you!

Melissa - Greenbush - Mi - USA -
Wednesday, November 8th, 2000 at 4:13 pm

I just love your page. It brought back some memories. Although I didn't go through near as much as you all did. My son, Christopher was born 6 1/2 weeks early. He did very well and we went home after 2 weeks. He is 8 months old now. We are very lucky and it seems you are too =o) What a beautiful little boy Tommy is. Good Luck with school Tommy!!

Kari - Whiteman AFB - MO - USA - http://kari.itgo.com
Saturday, November 4th, 2000 at 9:45 pm

I have a preemie her name is Rebecca and she was born at 25 weeks. She was born in July 00. She was born at 1pd 11oz. She is still in the hospital. She has had two operations. She has heart problems and lung problems. They are not sure when she can come home with me because she has had problems with her bottle. She has to learn to suck, breath, and swallow at the same time. But she is wonderful. It has been one long learning experience for me. But a very hard road for anyone to travel. I will keep you in my prayers just like I do my little Rebecca. God Bless You

Tammy Hulderman - Geneva - oh - USA -
Friday, November 3rd, 2000 at 6:10 pm

My brother had a baby on May 29, 2000, he was born 3 1/2 months early..... he weighed 8 oz.....he died on July 15,2000 living only 6 weeks. I know what every family goes through, it's very hard, even though i didn't know Samuel very much, he stays in my heart every day. It's very hard loosing a preemie baby..... *Love* Adrianne

Adrianne - Bloomington - IN - US -
Friday, November 3rd, 2000 at 6:11 am

Reading your story reminded me of what i went thru four months ago with my daughter Makayla. She was born at 29 weeks. She had a lot of problems including affication (not enough oxygen),couldn't clot, required ventilator for 27 days, and rop @grade 3. Her ROP has resolved so has her IVH grade one. She was born at 2 pounds 9 oz and is only up to 6 pounds 8 ounces. She is still being feed by a feeding pump. but will soon go to gravity feeds. Most of the things she had wrong with her she has out grown. but we still have a lot more to go thru and a lot more doctors to see. Thanks for sharing you site and letting us know we're not alone.

Stephanie Fletcher - new boston - oh - usa -
Tuesday, October 24th, 2000 at 6:40 pm

You have come a long way's from your birth. I'm proud of you and I don't even know you. You keep up that good work and stay healthy and cute. Brenda

Brenda - - - -
Monday, October 23rd, 2000 at 12:55 am

After my entry I read some of the other entries and I realized how many premature babies are born all over the world and that I am not alone. My Mikala is now 8 1/2 months old and 13lbs and is extremely happy and healthy (although petite). Our only problem with my little peanut is her eyes(which from the entries i read we're not alone). Also, to mom and dad your web site of your daughter also gave me hope that maybe someday my husband and I can try to have another and maybe carry full term. thank you again for sharing your angels.

lmathews - locust grove - ga - usa -
Saturday, October 21st, 2000 at 11:02 pm

i am glad to see that everything is good for you and your family. I had a little girl named Mikala at 27weeks and she weight 1lb 10oz and was also 13 inches long. Thank you and your family for this site you gave me hope that everything will be ok...

lucy mathews - locust grove - ga - usa -
Saturday, October 21st, 2000 at 10:43 pm

TOMMY IS SOOOOOOOO BEAUTIFUL AND YA'LL ARE SO BLESSED TO HAVE HIM! THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR ANGEL WITH ALL OF US! KIM GREGORY

KIM GREGORY - KEITHVILLE - LA - -
Thursday, October 19th, 2000 at 11:29 pm

denise kelly - dublin - - irelend -
Wednesday, October 18th, 2000 at 6:15 am

I am so happy you are doing good. My 1lb 11oz preemie is now 3yrs+ and 30lbs. She's petite but healthy and lively. I was told I'd never go to term in pregnancy and my babies would be small (my peanut was pregnacy #4 and sole survivor) We showed them! January 2000 I gave birth to a 8lb8oz baby boy at 39 1/2 weeks!!!

Roxanne Bennett - Fredericton - NB - Canada -
Monday, October 9th, 2000 at 6:22 pm

Jennifer Olsen - Raleigh - NC - USA -
Monday, October 9th, 2000 at 10:16 am

How wonderful to see the photos from your first day at school. I have enjoyed watching you grow and develop over the years. I always like to compare your experiences with our twin 29 weekers that were born in Feb. 95 at 2.5lbs. each. Alexandra and Victoria began Kindergarten this year as well. I just attended my first conferences with their teachers yesterday, and could not help but be thankful for such wonderful reports - especially when reflecting on how their lives began. Thanks so much for providing a location where the joys and sorrows of prematurity may be shared.

Rochelle - - TN - USA -
Friday, October 6th, 2000 at 10:15 am

It' to see you okay and doing fine now. I'm a mother of five healty children but our eldest died fifteen years ago. She died of lukemia and all our savings were all spent with her medications. it's been years that our eldest daughter died her name is cherie-lou but still the pain is within our hearts. goodluck on your life. god bless.

marilou v. maravilla - lipa city - 63 - philippines -
Tuesday, October 3rd, 2000 at 3:29 pm

We have a beautiful new daughter who was born June 3rd at almost 23 wks and weighed in at 584 grams or about 1 lb 2 oz. She has had problems with infection, is still on the respirator, and is having problems digesting. But, all in all, she is actually doing quite well. She has amazed everyone in the NICU. She is now almost five pounds and is a real fighter. Reading your story has made me feel much better today. Thank you.

Vicki - - - Canada -
Friday, September 22nd, 2000 at 10:20 pm

My son Cameron spent 11 weeks in the NICU at St Josephs Hospital Milwaukee WI. He was born 13 weeks early weighing 2lbs Ooz 14 inches. He's been home for 4 weeks and is gaining weight fast. He's up to 8 1/2 lbs now. He is doing pretty good. He is still on an apnea monitor but if things keep progressing the way they are, Cameron will be off the monitor in no time. He is the best thing that ever happened to me and I could not imagine my life without him. Your website has been very comforting to me. Thank you!

Kerrie Padget - WEST BEND - WI - USA -
Tuesday, September 19th, 2000 at 9:28 pm

this is my first time on your site. I also had a preemie she was born at 32 weeks she was in the NICU for a week than moved to Transitional for 5 days at University of Louisville Hospital in Kentucky. She was due March 5,00 born of January 14,00 she weighed 4 pounds 13 ozs and i was able to bring her home at 4 pounds 9 ozs. she is now 8 months old yesterday and weighing close to 18 pounds. She is very healthy hasn't been sick. I too was a preemie I didn't think that my daughter would be since her brother was full term. I really enjoy your page and I'm still looking at it and will send the address on to friends with preemies. sincerely, Krysta Anderson

Krysta Anderson - Jeffersonville - IN - usa -
Friday, September 15th, 2000 at 6:46 am

My name is Amber Handrich and I am sixteen years old. I got pregnant when I was fourteen and had my daughter, Charlayna, after I turned fifteen. Charlayna was 14 weeks premature and weighed 2lbs. 2oz. She was 14.5 inches long. She spent 12 weeks in the NICU that is located almost two hours from where I live. I am still in school and was at that time also. I could only go see her twice a week. She was discharged the day before Mother's Day in 1999. Now she is 19 mos. old and over twenty pounds. Charlayna wears glasses (at least she is supposed to), has braces on her feet to keep them flat and just had surgery on her eyes to correct crossing. She also does not sit, crawl, or walk yet. Your story has given me hope that Charlayna may one day be able to play outside and go to school. It has been hard on me and her but we hang in there and I am so glad you did too.

Amber Handrich - Firview - MI - US -
Thursday, September 14th, 2000 at 11:00 am

MAYBE SOMEDAY YOU WILL MEET ETHAN GODSOE. BORN FEB.22,1999 WEIGHING 1lb.6 ozs ,TODAY HE IS 18 MTHS. OLD AND 18 LBS. ONLY PROBLEM WEARS GLASSES. WE MUST SHARE A LOT OF STORIES ABOUT OUR EARLY START IN NNICU. LOVE ETHAN HEIDI & STEPHEN

Stephen & Heidi Godsoe - Saint John - N.B. - Canada -
Wednesday, September 13th, 2000 at 7:50 pm

Stephen & Heidi Godsoe - - - -
Wednesday, September 13th, 2000 at 7:34 pm

thank you for creating such a positive site. Gracie was born 14 weeks eatly at 1 pound 12 ounces. We spent 112 days in the NICU. She is now home on oxyden. I have been reluctant to go back on line after my first try because of all the grim information. you have given me hope and lifted my spirits. thanks

Amy Kennedy - - - -
Tuesday, September 12th, 2000 at 7:50 am

We just wanted to say that you have a very inspiring story. 9 months ago, our first child was born. Sarah, although now healthy and catching up quickly. Was born 12 weeks early, due to my condition (pre-eclampsia). Sarah weighed in at 2 pounds 2 ounces, and 14 inches long. We didn't know how everything was going to turn out. But, with constant pray and our belief that our child would live...She did. And has now become a very active 9 month old. We would just like to say thank you for sharing your story with the world. And we hope your enjoying kindergarten!

Jeremy and Jami Schepp - Madison - WI - USA -
Saturday, September 9th, 2000 at 1:03 pm

i want to go to college. become an RN and specialize in premies. the only thing is that we are not the richist people.i really love pre mature babies. i have known a few people who have had them.it really braks there heart.\ i hope i really get to work with premies.do you know of any places that give scholerships? talk to you later.

tam - - - -
Thursday, September 7th, 2000 at 6:26 pm

Greetings from Central Washington State. I can't tell you how much your website has helped me. Reading your dad's story has calmed me and answered many questions.

My daughter gave birth to Benjamin Clayton on August 31, 2pounds 2 ounces. She and her husband have just started on the rollercoaster ride. The information I found on your site enables me to offer strength & a deeper understanding of what they as a couple are facing. Thank you so much. Nancy Fleming

Nancy - Cle Elum - WA - USA -
Thursday, September 7th, 2000 at 1:57 pm

It's really great to hear you are starting kindergarten. I have a daughter that was born at 28 weeks. She has been diagnosed with PVL as devastating it was to hear that im very thankful she is alive. She is my whole life and I could not ask for a more precious gift. please e-mail me and let me know how kindergarten is going. Good luck and God Bless.

Melanie Warren - Niagara Falls - NY - USA -
Sunday, September 3rd, 2000 at 11:12 pm

Melanie Warren - - - -
Sunday, September 3rd, 2000 at 11:01 pm

Thank you for sharing your story with us.

Burley and Kelly Good - Hazel Park - Michigan - USA -
Saturday, September 2nd, 2000 at 11:17 pm

Our names are Joe and Paula Shockley. On August 13, 2000, we had a premature baby. Her name is Laurelei. She was born at 25.5 weeks. She was not due until Nov 27, 2000. She weighed 1 pound 11 ounces, and was 13 and 1/2 inches long. We are at the point right now of being scared to death about her. She has a Grade II bleed, yeast infection in her blood, and a bloated tummy. Thanks for listening to us, and letting us read your preemie page. Paula and Joe

Paula and Joe Shockley - Muncie - IN - USA -
Wednesday, August 30th, 2000 at 4:12 am

Julie Rothwell - Stockport - - England -
Saturday, August 26th, 2000 at 12:13 am

Your story has helped me so much tonight as my daughter-in-law is in labor right now. She is 15 weeks early with twins, each weighing approximately 1# 6oz. Reading your story has lessened my fears. I hope you enjoy kindergarten and thank you again. Joyce Scesny

Joyce Scesny - Leominster - MA - USA -
Friday, August 25th, 2000 at 6:39 pm

Vicki McClintock - kingsport - Tennessee - usa -
Tuesday, August 22nd, 2000 at 11:50 am

Your pages are wonderful. I wish they had of been around 8 years ago when my son was born 3 months premature. Without us having we were going to have a baby. It would have been so helpful to have someone to talk to and relate too. Instead we had to face eveything alone, never knowing anyone who had such an early preemie. Please take the time to read Cody's story. It is very interesting. I would like to know how I can add it to your preemie ring. Thanks, Cindy

Cindy - Afton - TN - USA - http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Ridge/9285/
Sunday, August 20th, 2000 at 3:01 pm

Hello, I have a son who was a preemie. I would like to add his page to your preemie web. He is the light of our lives and a joy to behold. Please take the time to read his story. Your pages are great. I wish things like this had been around when Cody was born. I could have used the moral support. Instead of facing everything alone and in the dark about premature births. Thanks...God Bless, Cindy

Cindy - Afton - TN - USA - http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Ridge/9285/
Sunday, August 20th, 2000 at 2:55 pm

MY GRANDSON WAS BORN JULY 15,2000 HE WAS 3 1/2 MOS.EARLY ALSO HE WEIGHED 1lb 4oz.PRAY FOR HIM

JOYCE TROLLINGER-ALLEN - DALLAS - TX - DALLAS -
Wednesday, August 16th, 2000 at 2:03 pm

I have enjoyed viewing you website. All of this sounds so familiar. We were blessed with a 29 weeker on april 21,2000, abigail ray weighing 2pds 13.6 ounces, 14.5 inches. we were in the hospital for 7 weeks. Those were the longest 7 weeks of our lives. Abby is our second child. Our first, Zachary was full term w/no complications. We were on the vent for the first 4 hours of life and then oxygen at 21% for a while, then the c-pap for a week. We hated the c-pap! We began to have bradys and apnea due to low blood. We were given 3 transfusions over a 7 week period. Abby was given breast milk for a while by the tube. Eventually we went to the volume feed bottles and we were so happy when she took 35 cc's. Abby has no rop. We went home on June 7th. We requested the apnea monitor. However, the dr's said it was not necessary. We went home with a monitor and after two weeks at home, we discontinued the monitor per the pediatrician. Abby is now almost 10 pounds after being home for 2 months. We are so happy and truly blessed to have a healthy baby. We saw so many sick babies while in the hospital and felt so fortunate at that time because she was one of the less sick preemies. We have an excellent neonatal unit. We became family and bonded w/abbys prim. nurse, katie. She was wonderful. NICU is a special place that everyone on earth needs to visit sometime. It will change you. It has changed our lives forever. We were and still are religous believers. there is a god and he has angels watching over us. Thank you for letting us share w/you a little bit of our story. We could also create a website just on abby because there is so much to tell. We would love to hear how tommy done during his first year of life. Will you e-mail us to let us know? God bless, The Dempsey Family.

Barry and Dawn Dempsey - Rockmart - ga - usa -
Sunday, August 13th, 2000 at 9:43 pm

Hi we have a little girl called Sarah who was born on the 18/7/1997 at 23 weeks gestation. She weighed 445gm (15 ounces). she was on o2 until 9 months of age and is now doing incredibly well.It is nice to know there are other people out there who have been through the same thing and made it to the other side.Bye kylie and sarah hall

kylie hall - esperance - w.a. - australia -
Sunday, August 13th, 2000 at 12:05 am

I am the mummy of two preemie sons,Liam born at 31 weeks and Jake at 35 weeks.My boys did have a big brother Evan(born at 26 weeks),but he was very sick and is now in heaven.Thank your Mommy and Daddy very much for such great insperation,you and your sister are very lucky.God Bless you and your family,Liz,Damon(Daddy),Liam and Jake

Liz Spiers - Aurora - - Canada -
Saturday, August 12th, 2000 at 1:18 am

Yolanda Rogers - Orange - nj - united states -
Friday, August 11th, 2000 at 10:32 am

My name is Hayley I think your site is very helpful My brothers little boy Callum was born 4 months premature the doctors said he would not make it but now little Callum is 2 years old and fighting fit He has had 5 operations and has been in hospital for a year and 1 month but is now home and doing well

hayley tucker - busselton - WA - australia -
Thursday, August 10th, 2000 at 8:27 pm

just read your story, my son is 9 and he was born 3 months early weighing 1 pound 10 1/2 ounces. He spent 18 months in the hospital and came home with oxygen. Today he is a very active boy and you can never tell just by looking at him that he was born early..

Holly - anniston - al - usa -
Wednesday, August 9th, 2000 at 6:38 pm

I cant thank you again for being my sunshine. Nicholas born at 26 weeks GA weighing 1 pound 12 ounces on May 25th has made it through the rain. He is now over 4 pounds and in the fattening up room at the hospital. He is so beautiful and the most precious gift that I have ever received. With the many blessings from God he will be coming home soon. Thanks again Faye

Faye Monte - Pasadena - CA - USA -
Saturday, July 29th, 2000 at 9:57 pm

dear Tommy we had twins and one is heaven and James is with us today he was born in 1989 and will turn 11 in September of this year. I wish this was around when our boy's were born. James was 26 weeks and his weight was 995grams we spent 178 days in the hospital and had many problems we came home on oxygen. Today at school he has a Teacher Aide to help him with some of his school work and he takes part in Special Olympics. Thanks for letting me read what other people go through sometimes you feel alone and people do not understand because he looks alright.

lyn marks - - - -
Friday, July 28th, 2000 at 7:07 pm

I just finished reading your story and it has given me much hope. My son, Jason, was born 18 days ago at 23 weeks 5 days gestation. He weighed 1 pound 7 ounces and was 12 inches long. Jason had a twin brother. His brother, Alex, died about 20 minutes after being born. Jason is in the NICU at Long Beach Memorial Hospital in California. He is one of the youngest babies cared for in this hospital's NICU. I hope his outcome is as successful as yours. Thanks for sharing your story. kim

kim - - ca - -
Friday, July 28th, 2000 at 4:40 pm

Just checking out the web site. I'm a high school student who plans to become a neonatologist someday.

Hilary Brown - Wellington - Ont - Canada -
Thursday, July 27th, 2000 at 3:53 pm

Jennifer Gardner - - KY - USA -
Saturday, July 22nd, 2000 at 10:21 pm

Would you believe I have a little guy that was even smaller than you? His name is Ryan and he was 1 lb 4 oz at his birth (24 weeks gestation) I was thrilled to come across your website as I have been worrying about Ryan a lot lately. At 19 months old he is still very small...only 14 1/2 pounds and 28 inches long. Looking at your beautiful pictures has given me a ray of hope that he too will grow up to be a big boy some day. May God Bless you and your dedicated family!

Anne Schell - Mohawk - NY - 13407 -
Saturday, July 22nd, 2000 at 7:17 pm

I loves reading all about the things you went through. I myself have twin daughters that were born at 28 weeks, and had to go through many of the same thing. They are 15 months old now and doing great, just like you. Thank you for sharing!

Lisa Weston - Kent - WA - USA -
Thursday, July 20th, 2000 at 4:19 pm

how are you i am doing a school project on premeture babies and i was wondering if you could send me some information about it thank you yours sincerly rosy keysell

rosy - london - - england -
Wednesday, July 19th, 2000 at 4:34 am

Thank you for inviting us to your train party we really enjoyed ourselves--swinging on the swings and playing in the sandbox really made our day...we did not like the train and would not go on it but we watched all of the rest taking rides....we played Dan Dan the Choo choo man when we got home complete with the hats we got. Thanks again and we hope to see you soon for a play date....say thanks to your mom and dad for a great party!!

Madison & Davis McCarel - - - -
Saturday, July 15th, 2000 at 9:22 pm

Tried to play Eric Clapton but wouldn't work. Nice to see you doing so well. And thanks for offering a place to go for those of us behind who are experiencing the trials and tribulations of prematurity.

Robin - Palm Coast - FL - USA -
Saturday, July 15th, 2000 at 12:23 am

MY son was born at 26 weeks . HE weighed 2lbs 1.9oz and was 13 and 3\4 inches long. He was born April 11, 2000 and was due July 17. He is still in Children's Hospital. Little Nate has went through 3 surgeries . He has ROP and has had laser surgery done on his eyes and a colostomy which has now been reversed. He weighs 5lbs 8oz now . He will be home next week if everything goes alright . He will have a feeding tube and maybe oxygen. I'm glad everything is going great for you.

Valerie - - Ohio - -
Thursday, July 13th, 2000 at 3:53 pm

Reading your story is a great inspiration for me. We have done a great dealing of praying and feel that Nico is going to make it. We pray that he will not have any long term problems but are prepared for whatever may come our way. He is a very precious gift from God and is a great joy to us.

God Bless you and your family. Sincerely, Jody Panarelli

Jody Panarelli - Windham - ME - united states of america -
Tuesday, July 11th, 2000 at 8:19 pm

You sound like such a miracle. You are a very special boy. A real strong fighter. I can tell your mommy and daddy love you a whole lot. You and your family have been through some pretty hard times. I too have a son who was born preemie but only 5 weeks early. His name is Domonic. He had apnea and brady. I think back to the time we spent in the hospital and have to congradulate your parents are hanging in there! Have fun playing with your train and be nice to your little sister. I love your webpage! Excellent job and valuable infor- mation for others to help cope. Joyce

Joyce Bale - - - Canada -
Monday, July 10th, 2000 at 11:31 am

I can't begin to tell you how encouraging it is to read your story. My sister gave birth ,13 weeks early last night, to a baby girl (Georgia). Being that they are in Idaho and I am in California, it's been a very hard 24 hours being so far away from the people I love. But reading your story made me feel much better about their situation, and made me feel like I was a little closer for them. I'm waiting to fly out to see them, until they are ready. I hope Georgia will be as strong and wonderful as you appear to be. As soon as they are able, I'm going to have them visit your sight. I'm sure it will comfort them as well. Love Michelle (Georgia & Sierra's Tante) Sierra Madre,CA

Michelle - Sierra Madra - CA - USA -
Thursday, July 6th, 2000 at 1:05 pm

You are a very special little boy and such an inspiration to me. On may 25th I had a 27 week baby boy named Nicholas. My baby weighed 1pound 12 ounces. The good news is that he is over 5 weeks old now and holding steady ground. He is still on the ventilator, but fattening up quickly he now weighs 2pounds 6oz. I know that with lots of prayers and with inspirations like you he will be home soon. Thanks special one Love faye

Faye Monte - Pasadena - CA - US -
Monday, July 3rd, 2000 at 8:52 pm

Sounds like you are a very strong young man. I myself had a preemie baby boy. Joshua Christian (J.C), he was 16 weeks premature, and weighed just 1lb 3 oz. He's still in the hospital, only a month old. Hopefully he will grow up and become a miracle just like yourself! Have a good time in Kindergarden.

Brianna Parker - Holtsville - NY - -
Thursday, June 29th, 2000 at 9:18 pm

Sounds like you are a very strong young man. I myself had a preemie baby boy. Joshua Christian (J.C), he was 16 weeks premature, and weighed just 1lb 3 oz. He's still in the hospital, only a month old. Hopefully he will grow up and become a miracle just like yourself! Have a good time in Kindergarden.

Brianna Parker - Holtsville - NY - -
Thursday, June 29th, 2000 at 9:17 pm

I really enjoyed reading your story. It sounds like your doing very well. I, too, had a micro preemie. Connor was born at 27 weeks, 1lb. 6oz., 12 in. His story is very similiar to yours. He is 18 mo. now, and he is also doing very good. Have fun in Kindergarten this year!!!!

Christy Domnisse - Sioux City - IA - USA -
Saturday, June 24th, 2000 at 9:13 pm

What a wonderful site your Mom and Dad have made. I enjoyed looking at your pictures and seeing how happy and healthy you look. Our daughter was born at 32 weeks and weighed 4lbs. 11 oz. She was going to be a big one. She did have to stay in the hospital for a month, but other than that she is perfectly healthy. I wish the hospital told me about this site last year when she was born. Keep up the good work! Enjoy the summer Tommy! Janet

Janet - Billerica - MA - USA -
Friday, June 23rd, 2000 at 4:27 am

Wow I was very much impressed with this page.I just wanted to say that god was looking out for you.I have never experienced this my children were very healthy, my oldest daughter was 9lbs and 5 oz and 23 inches long and my son was 8lbs 1oz and 21 inches and my youngest daughter was 9lbs and 2 oz and 22 inches. And can you believe she was 2 weeks early. Well good luck with your life and have a great time in school..Joann Stark

Joann Stark - Patterson - CA - usa -
Friday, June 16th, 2000 at 10:54 pm

How old are you now? I look at those photos and they remind of my two children they were both born at 34 weeks and they were on all that stuff you were on. I am thinking about having another child with my husband is there any information that you can send to me by e-mail or snail mail about premature babies. how much did you weigh when you were born? What NICU were you in? Write back Good luck Maria

Maria & Arne Marko - - NS - Canada -
Sunday, June 11th, 2000 at 4:06 am

I hope you are doing well. I enjoyed reading your web page. Have a great start in kindergarten. You will love it.

constance martin - raleigh - nc - united states - http://home.netscape.com/
Thursday, June 1st, 2000 at 9:58 pm

Hi Tommy, Hope you have a great birthday this summer...

Rebecca Adami - Freer - Tx - Duval -
Wednesday, May 31st, 2000 at 12:25 am

My twins were born at 24.5 weeks. Their due date just came and went without the doctors even discussing discharge. The only thing keeping them in the NICU is eating- both tend to desat when they eat from a bottle. They just can't seem to coordinate the suck-swallow-breathe. I was reassured by reading your story- that not all preemies "go home around their due date" and that it is not indicative of a long term problem. Both my babies have done very well, though one will probably come home on oxygen. It's odd, because all babies are different, but I never thought my little girl would be kept on oxygen when she was the first to come off the ventilator at 1 lb. 15 oz.

Thanks for sharing your story. We NICU parents need all the reassurance we can get.

Lenore Hylton - Spokane - WA - USA - http://homepages.go.com/~lenore87/albums/TWINS
Tuesday, May 30th, 2000 at 4:21 pm

I am glad to hear you have become a big boy and are giving your Mom and Dad lots to smile about.

I recently became a Grammie of a little bitty angel. He came to use at 2 pounds 6 ounces, his twin brother is in heaven watching over our Mason, just like your GranMa did for you.

I have created a web site for my little one also. His Mom and Dad won't let me make it a public domain so for now we have it by invitation only. If you would like to see it and give me any suggestions please have Mommy and Daddy e mail me. Keep up the good work you little tiger you. Alberta aka Grammie Clipper oh yeah...psst......I am putting your link in there!!!! You are an inspiration....Go TOMMY

Grammie Clipper - Marinette - WI - USA -
Tuesday, May 30th, 2000 at 2:30 pm

I've got a new website featuring my preemie clothes! Also some new handmade items are being added in the next week. Pat

Pat Cotter - New Brighton - MN - USA - http://www.preemie-clothes.com
Tuesday, May 30th, 2000 at 10:20 am

Chris & Candace Campbell - Chattanooga - TN - USA -
Friday, May 26th, 2000 at 2:59 pm

Wow, little Tommy's story is almost word for word exactly what we are going through right now. Our little Wyatt Thomas Stephens was born at 25 weeks and 1 lb 14 oz and is six weeks into his care. He has had a lot more problems than little Tommy, but we are still hopeful for a positive outcome. Does anyone know if there are web sites to help with the financial disasters that come with a preemie. We are starting to be overwhelmed by the fight between the doctors, hospital, and the insurance company. Thanks, Quintin Stephens

Quintin Stephens - Streamwood - IL - 60107 -
Monday, May 22nd, 2000 at 1:30 pm

I feel so much better after visiting your site! Our son Brett Thomas was born early at 32 weeks. I had severe pre-eclampsia and was very sick. Brett was very lucky , he never needed to be intubated, or oxygen. He had the CPAP for about 2 hrs but nothing after that, no "spells" and he was taking the bottle on only his second day after birth!!! also a nasal feeding tube too. He was 3Lbs. 7oz. and 17 inches long born on 12-12-99 he came home weighing 4 lbs and only 2 weeks later!! It was great we brought him HOME on Christmas eve. I want to say thank you for this website, it gives alot of us other moms and dads hope!! By the way Brett is now 5 mo and weighs 15 and a half Lbs!!! he is doing everything on time, even early You have a great family!!! Good luck in the future...all the best!! Christine, Tom, and Brett:-)

Christine - - Ma - USA -
Sunday, May 21st, 2000 at 6:05 pm

I just read your article from beginning to end. I have a nephew who was born at 26 weeks weighing 2lbs.1oz. on may 3,2000 at unmc in omaha. Hes doing rather well. we are learning alot of new things everyday.I worry about him but after reading this I feel a little more comfortable with what is going on with Braiden. Thankyou for sharing your story.

monica earll - gothenburg - ne - 69138 -
Monday, May 15th, 2000 at 9:34 am

I am also contributing my story - it is very similar to Claire Kennedy's (guestroom 8th May 2000). I was born 29th June 1975 at St Margaret's Hospital Sydney (the nurses are unsung heroes), Australia. I was nearly 26 weeks and weighed 1 pound 15 ounces. Like Claire, I was in hospital for three months. A miracle baby. Luckily I did not require any blood transfusions, although I did stop breathing three times. I spent my days cushioned between two sanitary pads. Comfort and warmth!! It also prevented me from wriggling around, something I apparently became quite good at. I am just about to turn 25 and have completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree and work as an Accountant. I am very lucky that I am healthy and noone would know I was born a premmie. One special thing I have noticed Tommy, about myself and other premmies is that we are all born fighters. We don't give up and we believe in ourselves. My message to you is to got for it and never give up. Anyone reading this is more that welcome to drop me a line (premmie75@hotmail.com) and share their premmie experiences...eg ex-premmies who are now adults, Sydney Siders who need a shoulder to cry on, Claire Kennedy etc.. Lots of love XX

J - - - -
Tuesday, May 9th, 2000 at 6:22 pm

Linda J. Miller - Westwego - La - USA -
Tuesday, May 9th, 2000 at 11:04 am

After reading some of the messages i thought i should contribute my story. I was born on April 16th 1975 in England. I was nearly 26 weeks and weighed only 1 pound 14 ounces (a bag of sugar!)... this dropped to 1 pound 7 ounces. I was in hospital for 3 months exactly and came home on July 23rd - ironically the day i should have been born.

Luckily I suffered no illness due to my 'eagerness to get out to the world so early' - the only tube i had was in my nose to feed me (which i apparently kept pulling out!). Today i see stories of similar premature babies and even today i noticed an article in the New York Times. I was called 'The Miracle Baby' and at that time in 1975 without the technology of today - it was truly a miracle. I even got the last incubator in the hospital!

I have now just turned 25 and am currently studying for my 3rd degree! I have already completed a B.Sc and M.Sc and am now half way through my Ph.D. (I am studying the weather so watch out for 'Dr Kennedy' on your tv screens in the future!!) Best wishes for the future Claire x

Claire Kennedy - Birmingham - - England -
Monday, May 8th, 2000 at 3:09 pm

After reading some of the messages i thought i should contribute my story. I was born on April 16th 1975 in England. I was nearly 26 weeks and weighed only 1 pound 14 ounces (a bag of sugar!)... this dropped to 1 pound 7 ounces. I was in hospital for 3 months exactly and came home on July 23rd - ironically the day i should have been born.

Luckily I suffered no illnesses due to my 'eagerness to get out to the world so early' - the only tube i had was in my nose to feed me (which i apparently kept pulling out!). Today i see stories of similar premature babies and even today i noticed an article in the New York Times. I was called 'The Miracle Baby' and at that time in 1975 without the technology of today - it was truly a miracle. I even got the last incubator in the hospital!

I have now just turned 25 and am currently studying for my 3rd degree! I have already completed a B.Sc and M.Sc and am now half way through my Ph.D. (I am studying the weather so watch out for 'Dr Kennedy' on your tv screens in the future!!) Best wishes for the future Claire x

Claire Kennedy - Birmingham - - England -
Monday, May 8th, 2000 at 3:06 pm

Thank you for providing the encouragement I need! Our son was just born on April 9 of this year at 27 weeks. At only 1 lb 10 oz, he's a micro preemie. Your site has given me the proof I needed to realize that our little guy can not only survive but thrive, as well.

Lisa Uphold - Tucson - AZ - US -
Sunday, May 7th, 2000 at 10:17 pm

How are you? My name is Brittany and I was born 14 weeks premature weighing only 1 pound 12 ounces! I'm now 12 and I'm doing great in school! I just stopped in and I just had to say hi! I'm in French immersion and I have been for 3 years now. I can speak french fluently and I'm excelling greatly each and every day! Even though I was born so early, I came out fine with nothing wrong with me. Everyone says I'm a miracle! If you have time, please do write me! Brittany

Brittany . C - - N.B. - Canada - http://brittsworld.homepage.com and http://ilovemacygray.homepage.com
Sunday, May 7th, 2000 at 8:05 am

Thank you for helping me move dirt yesterday Tommy!

You are a great helper!

Dad - - - -
Sunday, May 7th, 2000 at 6:34 am

Just wanted to tell you that you are a remarkable young man and that you are truly a miracle from God. I too had a child that was born premature and survived and has turned four years old this month. His name is Jacob and he is extremely intelligent same as you. Keep moving forward Tommy. You are truly one in God's eyes. Sincerely, Lesa and Jacob

Lesa Richard - Bloomdale - OH - USA -
Friday, May 5th, 2000 at 10:23 am

On April 24,2000, my husband and I had our daughter at 25 weeks. She is 10 days old and so far she is breathing in her own. She has about 12 apnea attacks a day. It is wonderful to see that your little boy (only 1oz. less than our little girl) is doing great. It is nice to hear that She does have a good chance of leading a healthy life.

Laurie Herrebrugh - rochester - nh - usa -
Thursday, May 4th, 2000 at 12:43 am

Hi, I really truly enjoyed your web site. It was very encouraging. I have a premature grandson that was born on April 13, 2000. He was 10 weeks early and weighed 3lbs.4 oz. He is doing really well and has gained up to 3lb.12.6 oz. now. Thank so much for making this story available to us. God Bless You, Kathy

Kathy Law - oglethorpe - ga - usa -
Thursday, May 4th, 2000 at 7:53 am