On May 31, 2007 we welcomed a fourth addition to our family, Tommie Rose Trujillo, born 16 weeks prematurely weighing 1.6 lbs measuring the length of a ruler from head to toe.
Scared, is an understatement as to how we felt, the fear of her not surviving was the most awful feeling we had ever had. She was rushed to Children's Hospital in Madera and spent the first three months of her life there in the NICU unit. The first few days were crucial but our little miracle would not give up and continued to grow and grow. We were not sure if she would suffer any long lasting medical problems ,that would come with time. The doctors, nurses and staff are to say the least the most awesome people, they helped us understand what was taking place with our baby girl. If not for them I am not sure how we would have made it through those first few months. Tommie's progress was amazing, she continued to strengthen and grow. On August 26, 2007 we were able to take her home; she left being diagnosed with CLD (Chronic Lung Disease) and a list of things to do and not to do. It was sad to go; we were going to miss everyone but yet the happiest day of our lives
The first year at home was difficult we were advised not to take her out as her immune system was weak and the risk of her catching an illness was greater than that of a full term baby. A nurse came out monthly to monitor her and give her an injection to prevent RSV and she had an exceptional "teacher" from EPU (Exceptional Parents Unlimited) that would come out every week to track and help her development. She developed slowly at first but at around seven months Tommie blossomed and began to be very active, showing great signs of communicating and expression.
Her 1st birthday could not arrive quickly enough, she was still not walking, but we could take her out! Tommie continued to develop wonderfully, crawling, walking and talking; we could not be a prouder family. Tommie is now three and has been upgraded from CLD to Asthma; she has some sensory and motor skill issues but is in the process of working on those areas. She is amazing and has surpassed our and her doctors’ expectations. If you see her you would have no idea she was a preemie, she is our inspiration, our hero, our joy and the new meaning for us to appreciate life. She is so loved and touched by all those who she comes in contact with and can turn a bad day upside down. She is like a sponge and just so smart. She has spunk, an attitude and an answer for everything (so she thinks). We are so very proud to be her parents and thank the Lord everyday for her.
She is INCREDIBLE!!
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