Miracle Monday – Ava Kachman

Ava Lynn Kachman was born 12 weeks early at 12:45am on March 30, 2019. She weighed only one pound, 14 ounces and was 13.5 inches long.

Her premature entry into the world by way of an emergency C-section was a surprise to everyone.

Shannon and Josh began the emotional roller coaster ride in Hurley’s Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). 

Ava needed a lot of special attention during those initial weeks. The bili blue light helped with her jaundice. The CPAP provided respiratory support.

There were scary moments along the way, but the skill of the NICU doctors and nurses combined with gentleness and compassion set Ava’s parents at ease. 

Little touches meant a lot. On Mother’s Day, Shannon was surprised with a painted greeting featuring Ava’s tiny handprint.

Josh was equally surprised on Father’s Day when Ava’s footprint was part of his surprise card.

After 79 long days in the NICU, it was finally time to go home! Shannon’s reflection was heartfelt:

“These months consisted of a lot of praying, lots of crying, sleepless nights, daily trips to the hospital, long days at her bedside, long days away from my toddler at home. With all the darkness comes light. This experience has made me realize how truly blessed we are, what mommas will do for their babies and that every journey is different. I will walk by faith even when I cannot see. I made some amazing lifelong friends in the NICU. The staff is amazing and I truly could not have made it through this without them.” 

Now, “Baby Ava” is a happy, busy two year old. She is truly a miracle!

Join us April 19 – 25th as we celebrate miracles like Ava during Children’s Hospitals Week. #ChangeKidsHealth #ChangetheFuture

Donate on behalf of children like AVA @ https://www.hurleyfoundation.org/donate