Baby Sophia, born premature at 26 weeks, weighing just 1lb 10oz, has been described by her mother as a “little miracle”.
Michelle Telford, mother of Sophia, gave birth to her baby on 26 January 2018. After 21 months, Sophia is thriving after an uncertain start in life.
Born with a hole in the heart and with lung problems, Sophia also developed Necrotizing enterocolitis, a condition that affects the intestines. Doctors had to operate on her and remove 35cm of her bowel.
“We were in total shock”, recalls Michelle, from Country Antrim. “The consultant told us we had a long road ahead, but we never imagined the journey Sophia would have to take.”
In November 2018, Sophia became seriously ill again and had to spend 10 weeks in intensive care.
Michelle said: “It was the worst year in all of our lives. And although she still has some ongoing issues and challenges, we are so proud and in total awe of how strong our little girl is after going through such a journey. At 21 months she is now thriving.”
SPUC comment
A SPUC spokesperson said: “The story of baby Sophia is a heart-warming story of devotion and the overcoming of great odds.
“It is wonderful what the medical profession can achieve today in the area of neonatal care, preventing tragedies and sparing parents the heartbreak of losing a child.
“Life matters.”
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