The heartwarming story of baby Daleyza, born prematurely on the side of a California highway, has captured the hearts of many. Against all odds, this tiny fighter survived thanks to the quick thinking of her mother and the heroic actions of Sacramento firefighters. Months later, a joyous reunion celebrated Daleyza’s incredible progress and the unbreakable bond forged in a moment of crisis.
A Mother’s Instincts and a Race Against Time
Jazmin Quijano, just 22 weeks pregnant, experienced a terrifying ordeal in June when she unexpectedly went into labor. En route to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Stockton, it became clear that the hospital lacked the necessary resources to care for a baby born so prematurely. The desperate journey to UC Davis Children’s Hospital in Sacramento began, but Daleyza couldn’t wait.
In the early hours of the morning, on the shoulder of Highway 99, Quijano gave birth to an unresponsive baby. Fear and uncertainty washed over her as she realized the gravity of the situation. “It was scary,” Quijano shared with The Sacramento Bee. “What happens if you don’t survive? Because she wasn’t crying. She wasn’t even moving at all.”
Firefighters Answer the Call: A Lifeline for Baby Daleyza
Quijano’s maternal instincts kicked in, and she immediately began performing CPR on her newborn. Precious minutes ticked by until Sacramento firefighters from Fire Station 6 arrived on the scene. Firefighter Jeffery Switkowski recounted the tense moments to KOVR, describing how Daleyza “didn’t have a pulse” and wasn’t breathing when they arrived.
The firefighters seamlessly took over, providing continuous CPR as they rushed Daleyza to UC Davis Medical Center. “We had to do CPR all the way to the hospital,” Switkowski recalled. “We did everything that we could.” Firefighter Andrienne Bisharat confirmed the rapid transport to the medical center, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
A Miraculous Journey and a Joyful Reunion
Daleyza’s fight for survival continued in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at UC Davis Medical Center. She spent an astonishing 145 days receiving specialized care before finally being discharged on November 15th. Her resilience and the dedication of the medical team were nothing short of miraculous.
On December 18th, a heartwarming reunion took place at Fire Station 6 in Oak Park. Daleyza, now thriving, was reunited with the firefighters who played a pivotal role in saving her life. The emotional gathering brought tears of joy and solidified the special bond between the Quijano family and these heroic first responders.
A Testament to Hope and the Power of Human Connection
“Those are her first family,” Quijano explained, emphasizing the profound impact the firefighters had on Daleyza’s life. “They’re going to always be family no matter what. … She’s always going to hear about them when she’s older and she has her own kids. We’re always going to talk about this.”
For the firefighters, the reunion was equally meaningful. Switkowski described it as “super special,” expressing his surprise and joy at seeing Daleyza thriving. “We had no idea that she was going to be here,” he shared. “It was so good to hold her and see that she’s doing so well.”
Dr. Steven McElroy, chief of neonatology at UC Davis Medical Center, marveled at Daleyza’s incredible journey. “The odds of being able to survive what she did and do as well as she did is zero,” McElroy stated. “So this is truly an amazing, amazing thing.” Daleyza’s story stands as a testament to the power of hope, the dedication of medical professionals, and the unwavering spirit of a tiny baby who defied the odds.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Premature Births
What is considered a premature birth? A premature birth is defined as a birth that occurs before 37 weeks of gestation.
What are the risks associated with premature birth? Premature babies face a higher risk of developing various health complications, including respiratory problems, feeding difficulties, and developmental delays.
What are the signs of premature labor? Signs of premature labor can include regular contractions, back pain, pelvic pressure, and vaginal bleeding. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention if experiencing any of these symptoms.
How can I reduce my risk of premature birth? Regular prenatal care, a healthy lifestyle, and managing existing medical conditions can help reduce the risk of premature birth.
Where can I find more information about premature births? Organizations like the March of Dimes and the American Academy of Pediatrics offer valuable resources and support for families affected by premature birth.
