Callan was born at 27 weeks gestation, with severe Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) at just 1 lb 6 oz. He developed pneumonia in his second week of life, which further complicated his fragile respiratory status. Callan went to Boston Children's Hospital at 2 months old, still 5 weeks before he was even due to be born, for a cardiac surgery. He went on to undergo a tracheostomy and g-tube surgery and he finally came home from the NICU after 287 days in the hospital, 100% dependent on his trach tube, ventilator, oxygen and g-tube. Callan has had nine surgeries and his trach was removed in June 2024 due to amazing progress in his respiratory status. Callan has a condition called Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD), which is also called "Chronic Lung Disease" and it is a lung disease due to prematurity. Callan continues to have a g-tube and participates in PT, OT, speech therapy and feeding therapy. Callan continues to be followed closely by a medical team that includes pulmonology, gastroenterology, ophthalmology, ENT and endocrine, but he has made amazing progress in his 5 and a half years of life. He goes to preschool, plays soccer, loves playing with his family and friends, is learning to read, and has a constantly joyous, curious and loving demeanor. He is truly a gift to his family and we are thankful for him every day, and for the medical care that has helped him to survive and now to thrive. The support of our Project NICU family has been invaluable in providing education, resources, friendship and a community that understands the multifaceted, emotional and complicated NICU life.