Ruby’s Story

Like all parents expecting their first child, Kim and Brett dreamt of welcoming their newborn daughter to the world and bringing her home to enjoy the busy, but unforgettable, first months of parenthood. However, the journey to bring Ruby home grew complex after she was born early at 25 weeks, weighing just 1 pound, 6 ounces. 

Like many babies born prematurely, Ruby experienced medical complications that resulted in a challenging first year of life. Ruby fought her way through two heart procedures, pneumonia, eye surgery and many complications with her lungs. Despite these challenges, Ruby quickly proved that though she is small, she is mighty. 

“With all that Ruby’s been through, she amazes us with her happy attitude, smiles and toughness,” said Brett.

After being discharged from the hospital, Ruby’s family was referred to Jojo’s Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit at ChildServe. The new unit turned out to be the perfect fit, as Ruby requires nursing care throughout the day.

She needed special technology and medical equipment, like a ventilator and tracheostomy to help her breathe and a g-tube implanted in her stomach to help her get all of the nutrition she needs to grow. She received intensive rehabilitation and nursing support to gain physical strength, develop her lungs and increase her ability to eat independently.  

After 469 days spent in the NICU and 400 days spent at ChildServe‘s Inpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation program, Ruby went home for the very first time since she was born.  

“Ruby’s ChildServe team always had such a positive and encouraging attitude,” said Kim, Ruby’s mom. “They did such a great job caring for Ruby, helping her grow stronger and develop, and training and empowering us as her primary caregivers.” 

The ChildServe team lined the hallways, celebrating as Ruby and her family took their final walk out of the rehab unit — heading home for the first time. 

“We’re so thankful to all the people that have been involved in Ruby’s care,” said Kim. “Together, we laughed, we cried, we sang, we danced, we pool partied and we grew! Ruby grew stronger mentally and physically because of ChildServe. We’re so filled with joy to be home, but we’re also sad to close the chapter on our ChildServe journey because of the incredible connections we’ve made with her care team and other families. ChildServe has truly helped our Ruby thrive and get to where she is today.”