Mile 83

On July 28, 2023, Fabiola and Adam welcomed their daughter, Liani, who was born prematurely at 30- weeks and 4 days. She weighed a delicate 3 pounds and 2.9 ounces. Due to her early arrival, Liani was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Touro for close monitoring and specialized care. Fabiola made regular visits to Touro Hospital to be with Liani. Then, one evening, she received unexpected news.  Liani was very sick,” said Fabiola. “Her belly was distended, and they found blood in her stool.  Liani was diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) at just four days old. NEC is a serious intestinal condition often seen in premature babies causing inflammation and harm to the intestines, especially the lining. In severe instances, it can lead to the death of intestinal tissue, and holes in the intestinal wall.  Liani was transferred to Manning Family Children’s, where she would possibly need surgery.

Liani’s condition took a critical turn when Dr. Valerie discovered Liani’s bowels had perforated, causing the infection to leak out into her body. Due to the urgency of the situation, emergency surgery was necessary. On August 5, 2023, Liani, who was just over a week old, underwent her first surgery.  To improve her outcomes, doctors had to remove 70 percent of the affected intestine, leaving only 30 percent viable.  Two days later, another surgery was performed to evaluate the remaining 30 percent of Liani’s intestines, which thankfully appeared healthy. During this procedure, an ostomy was established to divert waste from the intestines, and a mucus fistula was constructed to facilitate mucus passage, aiding in healing and reducing the risk of blockages. Subsequently, Liani underwent another intervention in which a G-tube was inserted to help with Liani’s feedings.

By the end of August, Liani was extubated and transitioned to a nasal cannula. Soon after, the oxygen support was completely removed, giving Liani’s parents the opportunity to see her “beautiful little face.” The following months, the main emphasis was on Liani’s healing and recovery, closing with her next surgery on October 31. Her final procedure took place on December 27, 2023, marking a pivotal moment in her journey. Two days later, Liani passed stool without assistance. After more than 8 months in the NICU, Liani was discharged home in March, ready to join her parents for their wonderful future together.