Updated: November 30, 2016
Originally Published: Oct. 24, 2010
Nearly 20 years ago, my eldest daughter made her grand entrance into the world—albeit a bit premature, arriving over Labor Day weekend at just 24 weeks. You could say it was a dramatic debut; she weighed only 715 grams. After enduring four years of infertility, numerous tests, and heartbreaking losses, we finally had our miracle baby, though she was tiny enough to fit in the palm of our hands.
Our journey was filled with a rollercoaster of emotions—joy and fear, guilt and hope—especially after her emergency heart surgery at just two weeks old. As October rolled in, we were cautiously optimistic. Our little pumpkin was stable enough to celebrate the arrival of fall, but from the cozy confines of her isolette.
To lift our spirits, the incredible nurses had a bright idea: “Halloween is coming up! We need a costume for Emily.”
At first, we exchanged puzzled glances. “A costume? For her? Is that even possible?”
“Absolutely! This is Emily’s first Halloween, and she deserves something special. Perhaps a princess or a cute kitty cat?” they suggested, their faces filled with excitement.
Despite our lack of crafting skills, we embarked on a mission to find the perfect outfit. After some deliberation, we learned about a toy store nearby that specialized in doll clothes. “It’s worth a shot,” the nurses assured us.
So, off we went on a Sunday morning, excitement tinged with uncertainty. Upon entering the store, we hesitated, feeling slightly out of our element.
“Can I help you?” the store owner inquired, friendly and knowledgeable.
“We’re searching for a costume for our daughter… she’s in the hospital and very premature,” we explained sheepishly.
The owner smiled warmly. “I have just the thing! Let’s find something truly special for her.”
Guided to a section brimming with adorable doll outfits, we were overwhelmed by the choices. What would be suitable for her tiny frame, especially with all the wires and tubes that were part of her daily life?
Then, I spotted it—a charming white tennis dress, complete with a headband, a miniature racquet, and tiny balls. As a passionate tennis player myself, I could easily picture my daughter wearing that outfit one day.
My wife, ever more attuned to my feelings, nodded in agreement. “This is perfect!” she said.
With a newfound sense of joy, we rushed back to the NICU, eager to share our find with the nurses and little Emily. “Look, sweetheart, you’re going to be a tennis player for Halloween! Maybe one day you’ll play at Wimbledon!”
Two weeks later, the big day arrived. The nurses had decorated her isolette with festive Halloween flair, and Emily was ready for her first match. Yes, the costume was a bit oversized, but in her pleated white dress, she radiated a spirit that could conquer the world.
That Halloween, there were no tricks—just the sweet treat of seeing our daughter ready to take on whatever came her way.
Summary:
In this heartfelt tale, a father reflects on his daughter’s first Halloween spent in the NICU. After a challenging journey filled with uncertainty, he and his wife embark on a quest for the perfect costume for their premature daughter, Emily. With the help of compassionate nurses and a supportive community, they find joy in celebrating a holiday that many families cherish, showcasing the resilience of love and hope amidst adversity.
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