Newborn babies are among the most precious things in our world, and fragile as well. For women who have premature births, there are so many risks and dangers that it can be devastating for a family.
We just found a story of immense hope that we wanted to share with you. A baby was born at just thirty four weeks, and the mother and father were worried that she would not survive. But after just five days, the little one perked up and flashed the best smile we have ever seen. You are going to love this story when you watch the video.
Back in November of 2014, Lauren Vinje gave birth to her daughter Freya. At just thirty four weeks along, Freya was delivered via cesarean section because of severe complications. Lauren was suffering from preeclampsia, a pregnancy complication characterized by dangerously high blood pressure. “I knew something was wrong when I got so swollen I couldn’t fit my hands together around my ankles. Then I started seeing flashing lights.”
While it was touch and go for a while, after five days, little Freya was able to open her eyes and give one of the broadest smiles we have ever seen.
At that moment, Freya’s parents knew in their hearts that everything would work out for their family. However, Freya went on to spend another month in the NICU before she could be brought home.
“It’s crazy for us to be able to look at that photo and look at her now she really hasn’t changed other than she’s almost 2 and bigger,” says Lauren. “She’s literally the same person as that photo shows. She’s one of those kids that smiles at everyone in the grocery store.”
This year, with Freya being a happy and totally healthy toddler, her parents decided to share their story of hope and faith on the website Love What Matters, saying:
“Our first daughter at five days old. 3 lbs. 14 oz., she was happy to be alive! This picture was one I looked at often to get me through the ups and downs of our NICU days. Life is so precious. I wanted to get the picture out there because it has brought us so much joy. It puts a smile on our faces and we thought it could do that for others as well. She’s a constant reminder to keep things in perspective and stay positive.”
Their story has lightened up an otherwise dreary internet and moved people to comment in social media, saying things like:
“Such a precious & adorable smiling little cutie pie!”- Cindy Petty Vaught
“My daughter was a preemie too. She weighed 1 lb 6 ozs. They are true miracles from God . She will be 16 in December. Your daughter is beautiful.”- Barrett Lauren
“My beautiful niece who turns 19 tomorrow was born weighing 1lb 12oz I believe, give or take a oz, she was so smiley just like this beautiful happy baby.”- Karen Lovey
What do you think of this little miracle’s smile? Has your family struggled with a preemie? Share your thoughts and stories with us here.
