Born Too Soon, Loved Beyond Measure: Marking World Prematurity Day

Every year, around 15 million babies are born prematurely worldwide. While many survive and thrive, others face lifelong challenges from their very first breath. World Prematurity Day, observed on 17 November, serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the most vulnerable and acknowledges the fragile beginnings of these infants. For Mauritian families, both locally and abroad, the experience of premature birth holds significant meaning. Parents often confront fear and uncertainty while managing the demanding care their premature babies need. Yet amidst these challenges, there are stories of resilience as families celebrate every small victory and draw strength from love and community.

One such story is of Amreen Emmamdee, who moved to Dubai in 2021 expecting a life full of opportunities. She built a career in real estate and was excited to welcome her first child. However, at 30 weeks, her pregnancy took a drastic turn. After experiencing severe pain, she learned she was in labor and rushed to the hospital. Unfortunately, her daughter was born prematurely, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Despite the heart-wrenching circumstances, Amreen chose to focus on her daughter’s survival rather than pursue legal action for what she suspected was medical negligence. Instead, she sought specialized care in India, where her daughter began intensive physiotherapy to help recover from the challenges of her premature birth. Amreen's journey emphasizes the emotional and physical toll of nurturing a preterm baby while navigating the complexities of healthcare.

Similarly, Shareefa Youshna Jewan's experience in Canada highlights the unexpected nature of premature births. After her water broke unexpectedly, she underwent an emergency C-section. Her son, Zayn, spent 38 days in the NICU, during which she relied on the support of healthcare professionals and her community to navigate the challenges of caring for a premature infant. Today, Zayn is thriving, and Shareefa encourages other parents to hold on to hope and recognize the strength of their little ones.

Both stories illustrate the profound impact of premature birth on families and the unwavering love and resilience that emerge from these experiences.