From Fragility to Flourishing

A 16 day journey from oxygen therapy and tube feeding to healthy discharge

Critical at birth

Uma's* baby was born in a critical condition with a low weight of just 1390 grams, requiring oxygen therapy and refusing to feed. These early challenges placed her newborn at high risk, but with timely intervention and family support, the journey towards health began.

16 days of KMC

Uma, along with the baby's grandmother, actively engaged in Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), ensuring the baby received warmth, bonding, and stability. They also worked closely with the KMC nurse team to establish correct breastfeeding practices. With perseverance and guidance, Uma gradually gained confidence in positioning and latching, ensuring that the baby was able to feed more effectively.

Uma remained at Pratapgarh District Hospital for 16 days, making sure the baby received more than 8 hours of KMC daily. Her compassion, resilience, and belief in the process played a crucial role in the baby’s improvement. Over this period, the baby successfully transitioned from tube feeding to direct breastfeeding — a remarkable milestone in the recovery journey.

A healthy return

Recently Uma visited for a follow-up, and her baby was thriving, with a weight of 2320 grams.

This heartwarming story reflects how the combined efforts of the KMC team, the mother’s unwavering dedication, and the grandmother’s support transformed a fragile beginning into a story of strength, growth, and hope.

Hospital: Pratapgarh

Birth date: July 2025

Birth weight: 1390g

Follow-up weight: 2320g

*Name changed to protect privacy