Born at Just 1.3 Pounds, This Tiny Miracle Baby Is Finally Heading Home From the NICU

A baby born at 24 weeks is finally coming home after spending the first 18 months of her life in the hospital. Her New York family is thrilled to have her home at last.

Baby Born at 24 Weeks Finally Going Home

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Leah Hope Montayes Macias was a micro preemie, born weighing just 1.3 pounds. For one and a half years, hospital walls have been all she’s ever known. 

In her time at three different hospitals, Leah received treatment for a brain bleed, pulmonary hypertension, chronic lung disease, and patent ductus arteriosus, which is a heart defect that impacts blood pressure and flow to the heart and lungs. She’s spent the last year being weaned off of breathing support and developing through various therapies.

The Staff Celebrated with Little Leah

Many staff members of Blythedale Children's Hospital in Valhalla, New York, celebrated as little Leah was wheeled out of the hospital on Nov. 20.

"When she came here, she was all tensed up, wouldn't move. And now, she's dancing," said her mom, Stephanie Macias. "It's just amazing to see … she pushed through everything and she showed us what strength really is."

Leah’s parents said they are "overflowing with gratitude, relief, and joy."

"Leah’s journey has been extraordinary," the couple said. "She has fought through every challenge with a strength far greater than her tiny body, teaching us what courage, resilience, and faith truly look like. She is our miracle, our light, and our reminder that hope always rises."

Baby Beams with Strength and Resilience

Leah spent a full year at Blythedale. Dr. M. Susan LaTuga, one of Leah's doctors who knows her well, describes Leah as having a “sparkly” personality.

“This is a year and a half of being at a hospital, doctors telling you all sorts of scary, scary things about your child, and it’s a real honor [to have taken care of her],” the doctor said. 

“She’s just so strong, and I feel like that’s a testament to all of us. She’s so strong. She wants to be here. She has fought all this time… She’s so positive,” Stephanie said. 

Parents Rejoice at Baby Being Home

"It feels amazing," continued Stephanie. "She has shown us how resilient she is, and this is the day we've just been waiting for, to bring her home."

“This is how it’s supposed to be,” said her dad. “...We’re looking forward to waking up with our daughter. We’re looking forward to Leah being around the house. 

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The couple has a registration on Babylist, so those who wish to may purchase Leah clothes or supplies to use at home.

What a miracle that Leah survived being born at 24 weeks and now weighs 24 pounds! May she continue to grow and develop into a strong young woman. 

“I will give you praise, for I am strangely and delicately formed; your works are great wonders, and of this my soul is fully conscious,” Psalm 139:14

WATCH: Born at Just 1.3 Pounds, This Tiny Miracle Baby Is Finally Heading Home From the NICU

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h/t: People

Featured Image Credit: YouTube/Eyewitness News ABC7NY

Michaela Gordoni is an avid reader and part-time globe-trotter. With a bachelor's degree in International Relations and experience in the non-profit world, she has a passion for people and reporting. You can check out her portfolio here.