Local

Jacksonville baby born at 30 weeks as mom suffered congestive heart failure going home from NICU

Baby Savannah is tiny, but she’s a fighter.

She was born Jan. 20 at just 30 weeks old, after her mother was suffering from congestive heart failure.

“She weighed 3 pounds 6 ounces,” said mother Tanedra DuBose.

A team of doctors and nurses gathered around the DuBose during a C-section. There was a 30 to 40 percent chance she wouldn’t make it.

YOU MAY LIKE: Parents, photographer talk about capturing moment Jacksonville baby was born in car

“At the same time, I'm trying to process this, I'm also given paperwork to sign to say, 'Hey, in the event you don't make it, we need someone to make decisions and care for your daughter,'” said DuBose.

DuBose said she remembers her self-slipping away and becoming weak as the C-section was happening, but hearing the cry of her daughter gave her strength.

She said the team of nurses and doctors also gave her strength.

“Everyone, from the nurses, to the doctors, to the housekeeping, to the people that bring the food, these people, I built a bond with these people,” said DuBose.

TRENDING: Single mother's tax return Facebook post goes viral

“The biggest concerns were breathing and eating on her own and Savannah did well. She came off the ventilator quickly and started eating a few weeks later,” said Wolfson Children's Hospital NICU nurse manager Jennifer Southall.

And even better news, baby Savannah will be going home Thursday night.

DuBose said once she gets Savannah settled at home, she'll go back to the doctors to figure out the next step in getting her heart healthier.