Newborn Baby Sets Record as Oldest Surviving Premature Infant According to Guinness World Records
In a remarkable tale of resilience and medical advancement, Nash Keen, a baby from Ankeny, Iowa, has made history by becoming the youngest prematurely born baby to survive. Born at 21 weeks exactly on July 5, 2024, Nash shattered the previous record of 21 weeks and two days [1][2][3][4].
Weighing a mere 10 ounces, about the size of a bar of soap, Nash's early arrival was a challenge from the outset. He was immediately admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, where he received round-the-clock care for six months [2][3].
Nash's mother, Mollie Keen, had been diagnosed with an incompetent cervix and had a preventative stitch placed after a previous miscarriage. However, she went into labor early, necessitating a move to the University of Iowa, renowned for performing life-saving measures on babies born at 21 weeks [2][3].
From the outset, doctors gave a grim outlook due to the unprecedented nature of Nash's premature birth. However, the medical team, along with Nash's family, took it day by day. Nash's survival and progress amazed doctors, with his resilience described as exceptional [1][3].
After four surgeries, sleepless nights, and nearly seven months in the NICU, Nash Keen was discharged from the hospital, marking the end of his 218-day stay [1][4]. His first birthday, celebrated a year later, was a significant milestone for his family, who were overwhelmed after surviving what was once considered medically impossible.
Nash continues to develop well, learning to stand and preparing to eat solid foods as he grows stronger and healthier every day [1][4]. Despite his ongoing medical needs, including the use of oxygen 24/7 and daily medication, Nash is currently thriving, according to his parents and doctors [1].
Randall Keen, Nash's father, is eager to teach him golf, a passion he hopes to pass on to his son. Dr. Patrick McNamara, the neonatology division director at Stead Family Children's Hospital, hailed the NICU as a national treasure [5].
Initially, Dr. McNamara told Nash's parents that the chances of survival were zero, but they would do everything in their power to beat those odds [5]. Mollie Keen expressed that holding Nash for the first time was the best feeling in the world, and she hopes their story brings hope to current and future preemie families [1][2].
Nash Keen's story is a testament to the power of medical advancement, early intervention at a specialized facility, and unwavering family support. His journey serves as a beacon of hope for preemie families worldwide.
References: 1. ABC News 2. CNN 3. The New York Times 4. University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital 5. Iowa City Press-Citizen
- Nash's survival and progress have been remarkable, particularly given his early arrival and challenging medical conditions, such as chronic kidney disease and the need for oxygen 24/7.
- Mollie Keen's focus on family health and mental health, along with her resilience during this challenging period of parenting, has been inspiring for many.
- The story of Nash Keen has highlighted the important role that a facility like the neonatal intensive care unit at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital plays in the health and wellness of premature babies, focusing on chronic diseases and life-saving measures.
- Randall Keen's hopes for teaching his son golf, despite Nash's ongoing medical needs, show the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy and focusing on health and wellness for the whole family during difficult times.
