Seiori entered the world about the size of a Coke can, defying odds and expectations as she emerged from a precarious beginning to now flourishing at six months old.
Seiori
Doctors initially gave Seiori a mere 4% chance of survival upon her birth, revealed a spokesperson from Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center.
Paris Sweeney Austin, a single mother from Vallejo, finally brought her premature daughter home from the NICU after an arduous journey.
Born at just 23 weeks and two days, Seiori weighed a mere 12 ounces, with feet no larger than a quarter.
“It was definitely a shock to see how small she was,” expressed Austin, reflecting on Seiori’s diminutive stature. “Seiori means holy and sacred in Japanese,” she added, emphasizing the significance of her daughter’s name.
Induced prematurely due to infection, Seiori arrived as the earliest and smallest baby at Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center, with uncertain prospects for survival.
Dr. Shilpa Patil, part of Seiori’s dedicated care team, recounted the challenges of providing nutrition to the micro preemie, given her minute veins and throat.
Despite the odds, Seiori spent six months in the hospital, marking holidays like Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Easter within the confines of the NICU.
Now nearing 10 pounds, Seiori breathes independently and feeds from a bottle, showcasing remarkable progress that defies initial expectations.
As nurses packed Seiori’s belongings for her transition home, Austin reflected on the strength and resilience her daughter exhibited throughout her journey.
Describing Sei as a “tiny but mighty” warrior, Dr. Patil hailed her determination and strength.
Supported by prayers and unwavering hope, Seiori’s journey epitomizes resilience and the power of human spirit in overcoming adversity.
With a heart full of gratitude, Austin embraces the joy of bringing Sei home, surrounded by cheers and well-wishes from her care team.
As they embark on this new chapter together, Austin vows to remind Seio of her incredible strength and resilience, instilling a sense of empowerment and fortitude for the challenges ahead.