Sergio and Beatriz Carlos were overjoyed to welcome their daughter, Hailey J. Carlos, into the world on April 16, 2024. While Hailey’s arrival brought immense happiness, the journey to her birth and the months that followed were marked by extraordinary challenges. During Beatriz’s pregnancy, there were several complications. She experienced multiple ER visits due to severe nausea, dehydration, and bronchitis. Despite these difficulties, baby Hailey remained healthy and on track. On April 15, during a routine OB appointment, Beatriz’s blood pressure was alarmingly high, and she showed signs of severe swelling. She was sent to the ER to test for preeclampsia, which was quickly confirmed. Unfortunately, Beatriz’s condition escalated as she developed HELLP syndrome, a rare and serious pregnancy complication. This led to an emergency C-section, and Hailey was born prematurely at 34 weeks, immediately requiring care in the NICU. Initially, Hailey seemed to be on track for an early discharge, but just two days later, her condition deteriorated. She began vomiting green bile, and her belly became distended. She was urgently transferred to CHOC (Children’s Hospital of Orange County) on April 18 for specialized care. Hailey’s stay at CHOC spanned nearly five months. During this time, she underwent numerous tests and procedures. At just one week old, Hailey had her first exploratory surgery, which revealed hernias and adhesions on her intestines. Although she initially showed signs of recovery, further complications arose, including a second exploratory surgery at six weeks old and a third surgery at three months old. Hailey also struggled with jaundice, elevated bilirubin levels, and difficulties gaining weight due to dumping syndrome. For 117 days, she relied on a central line and TPN (total parenteral nutrition) for her nutritional needs. Through all these challenges, the incredible care team at CHOC worked tirelessly to stabilize Hailey’s condition. Finally, after 148 days in the NICU, Hailey was strong enough to go home. Today, Hailey is a thriving, happy, and curious baby who loves exploring her world and meeting new people. Her high-risk follow-up appointments show her progressing beautifully, with advancements in many developmental areas. Sergio and Beatriz are profoundly grateful to CHOC’s care team for their expertise and compassion and to March of Dimes for the critical support they provided during Hailey’s journey. The Carlos family shares their story to inspire hope and gratitude for the lifesaving work of NICU teams and organizations like March of Dimes, who fight for the health of all moms and babies.