First Baby of 2007…A PREEMIE

Reposted from PREEMIE e-NEWS…

Each year, hospitals across the country eagerly await the first baby of the year. It seems the first baby is considered somewhat exceptional. The first baby born in 2007 was indeed special — she was a preemie!

Nalaysia Raymond was born to Shaquencia Raymond at 4:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s/Candler Hospital in Savannah, GA. She was born a little over 2 months early and weighed only 2 lbs, 13 oz. Nalaysia is doing quite well, is breathing on her own, and is expected to go home in February.

Premature births are a growing trend throughout the world and it is estimated the number has risen by 30 percent in the past 20 years. This year, Nalaysia has reminded us all to focus on the needs of premature children.