We have learned in our TEACUP Preemie Program® that sometimes the best things come in tiny packages. When Baby Cheyenne was born at 24 weeks, weighing only 12 ounces, her mother Czierrah (Zy-air-uh) was beside herself with worry. She saw a flyer posted in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at West Boca Medical Center, mustered her courage, and made a call that would transform her harrowing journey. 

Chelsea Johnson, Coordinator of TEACUP Preemie Program® relates, “I picked up the phone and heard nothing on the other end. The silence was followed by a soft voice asking for help.” Soon after, Chelsea met Czierrah in the NICU at West Boca, offering emotional support, guidance, and hope. Since that day, Chelsea has helped Czierrah understand her baby’s development, provided emotional support during setbacks, prepared for her baby’s homecoming, and taught her ways to cope with her anxiety and stress. She also encouraged Czierrah to attend TEACUP’s® weekly virtual support groups, where she connected with other preemie moms in similar circumstances. Czierrah tells us she doesn’t know how she would have gotten through the last few months without the supportive community of TEACUP®.

Baby Cheyenne is finally going home after nearly 6 months, weighing over 9 pounds, and showing the world that she’s a survivor and a fighter! She was recently celebrated as the tiniest baby ever born at West Boca Medical Center. Through this journey, Czierrah found her own strength and courage. TEACUP® will continue to support this precious family in the days and months ahead.