For many parents having a premature baby is filled with scary moments and emotional hardships.
University of Michigan’s head football coach Jim Harbaugh and his wife Sarah just became parents of a newborn preemie, and while they’re overjoyed at the “precious” new addition to the family, it took quite some time before they were able to bring the sweet little guy home.
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John Paul Harbaugh was born on Jan. 11 and was in the neonatal intensive care unit at University of Michigan hospital until he “graduated” this past weekend.
Callus built! John graduated NICU today. Weighing 5 lbs, 11 oz's, Lngth & Wg span 19 1/2, S/o Dr Donn, Sarah, Michele, Jen, & all UM nurses! pic.twitter.com/n4LGJy9XFZ
— Coach Harbaugh (@CoachJim4UM) January 30, 2017
The medical staff and the Harbaugh family were thrilled about little John’s rapid improvements and have given credit to God.
Arriving early, weighing in at 4 lb 13 oz, with an 18 in wing span, our newest Wolverine teammate, John Harbaugh. Precious… God is good…
— Coach Harbaugh (@CoachJim4UM) January 11, 2017
John Paul Harbaugh conceived in the Jubilee year of Devine Mercy declared by @Pontifex My dream is to have our baby Baptized at the Vatican pic.twitter.com/OlzbNeu3wq
— Coach Harbaugh (@CoachJim4UM) January 26, 2017
According to Medline Plus, almost 1 out of every 10 infants born in the United States are premature which means ten percent of pregnant women are giving birth before 37 weeks.
Many organizations – like Graham’s Foundation – are working towards educating families about preemies in the hopes of easing their minds and hearts.
The Foundation states on their website that they are focused on supporting, advocating and encouraging more research to be done on premature births.
Laura shares her story on the Graham's Foundation blog about two nurses who made a difference in her life…. https://t.co/OBtnJa5LRR
— Preemie Parent Day (@premieparentday) January 22, 2017
The first step in the group’s process is distributing free care packages to parents and celebrating them.
How to Help:
There are many ways to support the organization like sponsoring a care package or donating funds.
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