24 week premature baby - Toby’s journey

Toby, born 24 weeks 4 days gestation on 21 Jun 07 (4 months early) at RPA Hospital in Sydney, Australia weighing 667 g (1 lb 8 oz). Due to preeclampsia, an hour’s notice was given of delivery for mothers safety. Prognosis for a 24 week old is about 50:50 survivability & avoiding major medical issues. He required immediate ventilation. He did OK during the first couple of days, but got an infection, putting him back for weeks (weight min 555 g). He had issues with his ductus, but this closed at the prior to require surgery. He was on ventilation for 17 days, and CPAP for 55 days. He was in NICU for 77 days, and 121 days in total. We received support from staff, parents, friends and family. Post-hospital; obstructive sleep apenia, enlarged tonsils, lactose intolerance, and mild celerabal palsey requiring hospitalisation and specialist care. Development delays resulted. He is a fun-loving, caring boy. Our thoughts remain with those not so lucky.