Layla's story

Layla Rhys was born January 12, 2012 at 26 weeks, 6 days gestation. She weighed 1lb 8oz and measured 11.75in at birth. That day was incredibly difficult and frightening for all of the people who love Layla and her family, but she has come a long way since! Layla's primary issues are respiratory. She has severe CLD/BPD, pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale, and tracheomalacia. During her time in the NICU, Layla has suffered several setbacks, including sepsis, pneumonia, and ORSA. Layla has been intubated and extubated several times during the past 3 months. At her worst, Layla has been on maximum oscillator settings; at her best, Layla has been on a high-flow nasal cannula at 2 liters of O2.
Because of her respiratory issues, Layla is unable to feed orally. She is, however, successful with tube feeds and has consistenly gained weight since birth.
Layla is a beautiful little fighter. She loves to be held by her mommy, daddy, and wonderful nurses. She likes looking around and sucking on a pacifier. She doesn't like staying in one position too long, and often enjoys baby push-ups on her tummy. Layla loves nothing more than a fresh diaper (and she'll let you know when it's time for one). She adores her amazing care team and is so grateful for all of their care and support. When Layla is stronger and healthier, she will enjoy playing with her loving cousins, Lauren and Dakota, and feeling the fresh air that she has missed in this early part of her life.

Keep Layla in your thoughts and prayers!