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Life Restored for Miracle Baby at BryanLGH Medical Center
For release: Immediately
Date: March 24, 2008
Contact: Stacy Bingham, 481-8689
Number: 08-1
LINCOLN, Neb. — Nine months ago, on June 7, 2007, 30-year old Marla Shelton was rushed from her physician office to a surgery suite on the childbirth unit at BryanLGH Medical Center after an ultrasound revealed a fetal heart rate of only 40 beats per minute. Her physician, Cory Friesen, MD, knew the next minutes were critical for saving the 38-week-old unborn child.
Once in surgery, Dr. Friesen and specially trained members of the BryanLGH childbirth team including neonatologist Albert Ansah, MD delivered 8 pound, 4 1/2 ounce, Addison Grace by caesarean only four minutes after arriving on the Childbirth Unit. – But, Addison’s heart was not beating.
During this moment of crisis, neonatologist Albert Ansah and team members worked tirelessly side-by-side in an effort to restore Addison’s life.
Eighteen minutes later, one heartbeat. Medications were given through a central line, placed through the umbilical cord. Addison’s tiny body turned from blue to pink. Her heart began beating faster, then stronger. “It was as if we were witnessing a miracle,” states Laurie Ketterl, RN, manager of maternal child services.
“The teamwork involved in saving Addison was extraordinary. Staff from many departments of the medical center responded on a moment’s notice. Everyone from laboratory to anesthesia, nursery and respiratory therapy worked together seamlessly,” says Dr. Ansah.
Nine months later Addison laughs at her big brother, Connor. She can sit up, roll over and even play patty cake. She still has a few challenges but all of them small in comparison to what she overcame on her first day of life.
“I think of that one beat, every day multiple times a day. Thanks for giving our family a chance to know our daughter,” states Marla Shelton.
