Mila’s Second Chance at the Elliot Hospital NICU

In November 2022, Renee and Cam Geddes found themselves facing the unimaginable challenge of a prolonged and difficult delivery resulting in an emergency c-section. The birth of their daughter, Mila, marked the beginning of an unexpected journey that led them to the Elliot Hospital NICU.

Mila's first days

Mila's early days were marked by the stark reality of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a condition arising from oxygen deprivation and limited blood flow to the brain. Placed on a cooling blanket in a medically induced hypothermic state for three critical days in the NICU, this intervention proved to be a life-saving measure.

Renee reflects, “Had we been at another hospital, it would have been added time before she got to the Elliot NICU where they were equipped to treat her. I found out later that the NICU team was in the operating room as she was delivered- it was that fast. Time was on our side because we were already there.”

Mila’s neonatologist at Elliot Hospital, Dr. Lauren Priolo explains, “Therapeutic hypothermia for infants with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is an intervention that has been proven to positively impact the neurologic and developmental outcome in those infants. The multi-disciplinary team at Elliot Hospital is equipped to provide this therapy within the critical time frame of six hours. The Elliot NICU team is able to provide therapeutic hypothermia both on transport from outside hospitals and to infants born at Elliot Hospital. Thanks to this therapy, we see the vast majority of infants treated have wonderful developmental progress as they grow post NICU discharge.”

“For the next seven days, Mila received world-class care from the most incredible team of doctors and nurses who ultimately saved her life and gave her a second chance at a successful future,” agrees Cam Geddes. The NICU team's dedication and expertise played a pivotal role in Mila's recovery, ensuring she emerged from the challenging start without any residual issues.

Mila thrives at The Elliot Hospital NICU

Mila's progress continued with the support of the NICU team, qualifying her for the follow-up program. Over the course of a year, she underwent evaluations by a multidisciplinary team of doctors, nurses, dieticians, therapists, and specialists. By her first birthday, Mila had fully graduated from the program with no residual effects, a testament to her resilience and the comprehensive care she received.

Celebrating with gratitude

Reflecting on their experience, Renee emphasizes, “Thanks to the work of the NICU team, her rough start is a thing of the past.” Mila's experience inspired Renee and Cam to give back, turning her first birthday celebration into an opportunity to support the NICU. Instead of traditional gifts, they asked friends and family to make donations, resulting in a generous contribution of over $2,000.

Explaining their decision to donate, Cam says, “While we were fortunate enough to only spend seven nights in the NICU, we experienced first-hand the overwhelming challenge that is to have your baby admitted to this department and witnessed the same for other parents. We understand the constant struggle of watching your baby lie in a tiny hospital bed, listening to the sounds of foreign machines while you helplessly watch.”

The Geddes family's gratitude extends beyond Mila's recovery; it encompasses the entire NICU team at Elliot Hospital. Their journey, though challenging, highlights the profound impact that exceptional medical care and compassionate support can have on the lives of newborns and their families.