After spending more than 150 days in the neonatal units, including Royal Sussex County and later at Princess Royal, baby Desire has made it home just in time for Christmas.
Desire was born in July to first-time parents Omotola (OJ) and Samuel Joseph, 18 weeks prematurely.
After going into labour unexpectedly, Mum, OJ from Horsham, was transferred to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton where she gave birth to her baby girl weighing just 13 oz (375 grams) – less than a bag of sugar.
OJ said: “Before she was born, we prepared our minds for what might happen. She was just so tiny, fitting entirely in the palm of my hand. We didn’t know if she was going to make it, it was so scary. We kept thinking will she survive but the doctors helped her so much. I have seen angels in human form. I’m so grateful to the teams. Now she’s getting better and stronger each day.”
Since her birth, Desire, has received specialist neonatal care and faced a challenging start to life, overcoming a series of infections. Despite these hurdles, she has grown stronger.
The couple praised the neonatal teams who have looked after Desire over the past five months who they said have been “angels”.
OJ said: “They all played an important role. They were so amazing, both the psychological care for myself and the care for my baby. The staff did amazing jobs! I’m so happy and grateful, they’re the best teams ever.”
Desire has come on leaps and bounds, now weighing 5lb 4oz, and was given the all clear to head home.
Having spent years dreaming of a baby, OJ and her husband Samuel are overjoyed to be taking their baby home to enjoy their first Christmas as a family of three.
OJ said: “This is the joy everyone looks forward to. The baby completes your family. We can’t wait to be wearing the matching pyjamas and celebrating Christmas together. This is the best year for me.”
