462 Days of Hope

Raider's journey began long before most babies are ready to enter the world.

Born at just 28 weeks and 6 days, Raider spent her first 462 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Studer Family Children's Hospital. Since her birth in September 2019, she has faced multiple hospitalizations, countless emergency room visits, and 19 surgeries. Through every challenge, the team at Studer Family Children's Hospital has been by her side.

Despite the uncertainty that often comes with caring for a critically ill child, Raider's family says they have always felt confident in the care she received and continues to receive today.

There were moments when that confidence became especially meaningful. On two separate occasions, Raider stopped breathing while her family was at her bedside. Each time, the response from the medical team was immediate, coordinated, and reassuring. Watching the physicians and nurses act so quickly gave her family peace of mind that Raider was exactly where she needed to be.

Over the years, it has been impossible for Raider's family to single out just one person who made a difference.

Instead, they credit the entire team for the compassion, professionalism, and expertise they have experienced throughout Raider's journey. Every physician, nurse, therapist, and caregiver has taken the time to explain procedures, answer questions, and ensure Raider and her family felt supported during every stage of treatment.

For Raider's family, that level of care is what makes Studer Family Children's Hospital so special. They describe the staff as caring, loving, compassionate, and kind, always going above and beyond to make families feel seen, heard, and cared for.

Today, Raider continues to defy the odds. Nineteen surgeries later, she is growing, progressing, and doing amazingly well. Her journey is a testament to her incredible resilience, the unwavering love of her family, and the exceptional pediatric care that has helped her overcome every obstacle.

Looking back, Raider's family is grateful for the team that not only saved their daughter's life, but also reminded them every step of the way that she mattered.

For families beginning a similar journey, they offer simple but meaningful advice: breathe, listen, ask questions, and trust the team caring for your child.