Micro Preemie Weighing Less Than 2 Lbs. Leaves NICU After 146 Days in Long Island Hospital

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 20, 2025

Rockville Centre, NY – Born at just under 2 pounds and 26 weeks premature, baby Trinity Alexandria Rose Taylor overcame immense odds during a 146-day stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Catholic Health’s Mercy Hospital in Long Island. On September 17, the joyous occasion of Trinity’s discharge was celebrated with applause and the uplifting tune of “Hakuna Matata,” a favorite song played daily by hospital staff during her stay.

For Trinity’s parents, LaTashia Morris and David Taylor, seeing their daughter finally go home was an emotional milestone after months of uncertainty, challenges, and relentless hope.

The Remarkable Journey of a Micro Preemie

Trinity was born three months early on April 24 at just 1 lb. 14 oz., a condition medically classified as a “micro preemie.” To protect her fragile body during delivery, doctors used an advanced technique by delivering her within her embryonic sack, a method designed to prevent trauma to extremely premature babies.

“That’s a technique I use, sometimes very small babies get traumatized as they come out, so it’s best if you keep the bag intact,” said Dr. Jahanshah Seraji of Mercy Hospital.

The newborn faced various challenges affecting her lungs, eyes, and heart, but a devoted team of doctors and nurses provided constant support, reassuring her parents that Trinity would thrive.

LaTashia Morris expressed the relief and gratitude she felt: “The nurses and the doctors were on me like, ‘Nope, we’re not going down to that dark place, like she’s going to be okay, we got you, we got her.’ And they really did.”

Teamwork and Triumph: NICU Care at Its Best

During her 146-day hospitalization, Trinity received critical care from an expert team at Mercy Hospital’s NICU, where nurses played “Hakuna Matata” daily to inspire hope and comfort. Trinity’s parents and grandmother remained by her side, turning the hospital into their second home as they supported her every step of the way.

Today, Trinity has gained strength and health, weighing over 11 lbs. 8.5 oz. Dr. Swarna Devarajan, Director of Neonatology, hailed Trinity’s progress as a remarkable feat.

“Her transformation is a powerful reflection of what advanced NICU care can achieve, and even more, a testament to the strength and spirit of one incredible little girl,” Dr. Devarajan said. She also noted that Trinity holds the record for the longest NICU stay in her 30-year career.

A Message of Strength and Hope for NICU Families

Reflecting on her experience, Morris shared a heartfelt message for other parents navigating the complexities of NICU care.

“You are stronger than you feel right now. The journey is long, but brighter days are coming. You are not alone, and you are doing an amazing job,” she said.

Trinity’s story exemplifies the power of medical expertise, unwavering family support, and resilience. Her journey from a tiny micro preemie to a thriving infant inspires hope for families facing similar challenges.

For more information about this incredible story and advanced NICU care, visit the original source at People.com.

Key Facts About Trinity’s NICU Journey

Born at 26 weeks gestation, three months early
Birth weight: just under 2 lbs. (1 lb. 14 oz.)
NICU stay lasted 146 days at Mercy Hospital, Rockville Centre
Faced challenges with lungs, eyes, and heart
Discharged weighing over 11 lbs. 8.5 oz.
Daily care accompanied by comforting ‘Hakuna Matata’ song