NICU grad 31 years later

Casey Newman and Charlotte

I have been reading Akron Children’s blog for a while now, and I always get a special sense of pride when I read about patient success stories and grateful families. I want to share my story too.

I am writing to say thank you. I am not writing as a thankful parent or family member, but as a NICU graduate now 31 years old.

I was born at 28 weeks and spent about 12 weeks being cared for in the Akron Children’s NICU. Obviously I do not remember my stay, but have been told over the years of the amazing care and support that my family and I received.

Thank you for giving me a chance at life and for supporting my parents and family as they cared for me. I have recently given birth to a daughter, and can say that neither of us would probably be here had I not received the care I did from Akron Children’s.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,
Casey (Barto) Newman and baby Charlotte

My dad holding me in the NICU.

Wearing my ‘NICU Grad’ t-shirt