Miracle Houston micropreemie graduates from NICU

Micropreemie graduates from NICU

A miracle baby defied the odds after being born a micropreemie. She weighed just over a pound and spent almost a year in the hospital. But she got a special graduation ceremony to celebrate at Texas Children's Hospital when her loving parents finally got to take her home.

HOUSTON - A miracle baby defied the odds after being born a micropreemie. She weighed just over a pound and spent almost a year in the hospital. But she got a special graduation ceremony to celebrate at Texas Children's Hospital when her loving parents finally got to take her home.

Baby Ada born at 22 weeks

The backstory:

Ada Bishop was born at 22 weeks and five days, weighing one pound, four ounces. She was born at The Woman's Hospital of Texas and later transferred to the NICU at Texas Children's Hospital, where she received specialized care for her respiratory issues, including a tracheostomy.

Tracheostomy helps baby Ada thrive

Doctors say Ada has done remarkably well and her biggest challenge was lung development, which led to her receiving a tracheostomy. This procedure has allowed her to thrive and continue her development outside the hospital.

What they're saying:

"The tracheostomy is a medical miracle that allows us to provide respiratory care for kids that we would not be able to do without it. Ada's thriving and smiling and playing, and it's just this is why we do what we do," stats Dr. Natalie Villafranco, a pediatric pulmonologist at Texas Children's Hospital.

"We're just blessed to have this option for her, and it really let her thrive," shares Ada's mother, Erica Bishop.

"Oh, it's absolutely incredible. It's a blessing. She is the light of our life," says her loving dad, Austin Bishop.  

What's next:

Ada's doctor hopes she will one day breathe freely without support, potentially within about a year.

Advancements in neonatal care

Why you should care:

Ada's story is a testament to the resilience of micropreemies and the advancements in neonatal care that can help them overcome significant health challenges.

Big picture view:

Ada's journey highlights the importance of specialized medical care for premature infants and the potential for positive outcomes with the right interventions.

Local perspective:

Texas Children's Hospital has been instrumental in Ada's care, providing the necessary support and expertise to help her thrive. 

Dig deeper:

For more information on neonatal care and support, visit https://www.texaschildrens.org/departments/neonatology/level-iv-nicu