A Grateful Heart: Marissa, Amy, and Baby Rosalyn’s Journey

For moms Marissa and Amy of Orange County, their pregnancy journey took an unexpected turn far earlier than planned.

At just 26 weeks pregnant, Marissa began experiencing bleeding and contractions. Concerned, her doctor advised her to head to Westchester Medical Center immediately. One day shy of 27 weeks gestation, little Rosalyn made her entrance into the world—tiny, but mighty—at only 2 pounds, 2 ounces.

Born premature, Rosalyn’s lungs and liver still needed time to fully develop. She was immediately admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, where she spent the next 95 days growing stronger, one precious milestone at a time.

During this incredibly emotional and challenging period, Marissa and Amy found not only world-class medical care but also compassionate support that made all the difference.

“The NICU staff are phenomenal,” the moms shared. “They provided us with knowledgeable and competent care and support.”

While Rosalyn fought bravely in the NICU, Marissa and Amy were able to stay close by at the Ronald McDonald House, located right on the Westchester Medical Center campus. They spent 50 days there, finding comfort and community just steps away from their daughter.

Today, Rosalyn is home, thriving—and full of joy. She’ll be celebrating her first birthday in July, a milestone her family will never take for granted.

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