Life After NICU

Weighing less than one pound at birth, Christopher was the smallest baby ever to graduate from the hospital’s NICU and go home with his loving family. Known to his family as “Christopher the Courageous,” he spent nearly a year receiving highly specialized, round-the-clock care from the clinical professionals at UMC Children’s Hospital. When Christopher was finally ready to go home, NICU Medical Director Dr. Francis Banfro celebrated the monumental occasion alongside the baby and his family. After building a strong bond with the family, Dr. Banfro walked them downstairs and wished them a fond farewell outside of UMC Children’s Hospital. 

Just months after Christopher went home, Isaac was born at 1 pound 10 ounces and spent three months in the NICU. Thanks to the world-class care they received from Dr. Banfro and his colleagues at UMC Children’s Hospital, Christopher and Isaac continue to grow and thrive. 

Expecting mother, Jessica, was at work when she realized her daughter was not only coming early, but in an upside-down, breech position. A Las Vegas Fire & Rescue crew immediately transported her to UMC. During transport, the crew found a way to ensure oxygen continued getting to the baby by holding pressure away from the umbilical cord.

Jessica gave birth to baby Johanna nearly one minute after she arrived at UMC. Johanna was born not breathing, and experienced UMC nurses quickly resuscitated her. Johanna spent more than a week in UMC’s Level III NICU before she went home to start her new life with her loving parents.

Doctors say the heroic actions of the Las Vegas Fire & Rescue crew and the nurses involved in the delivery ensured both Jessica and Johanna not only survived, but continue to thrive.