From Preemie to Advocate

By Shawnita Evans
When my mother had just reached 21 weeks of pregnancy, she felt something unusual: her water had broken—and everything changed. Fear gripped my family as they rushed to the hospital, where doctors delivered a harsh reality: I might not survive, and if I did, I would likely face severe impairments.
At the hospital, my mother was strongly urged to consider an abortion. Although they were heartbroken by the news of possible impairments and health issues from going into labor so prematurely, my parents were determined to fight for me.
Complications arose when I turned breech, meaning I was positioned feet-first, instead of head-first, which can be dangerous – prompting discussions of the possibility of an early delivery. However, my family remained steadfast. For the next two and a half months, my mother stayed in the hospital on strict bed rest, praying for my strength.
Finally, at 32 weeks, my mom was induced, and I entered the world as a tiny, 3-pound baby girl. My early days in the NICU were filled with challenges and uncertainties, but finally, after a month, I was able to come home a healthy baby.

Reflecting on the struggles and complexities surrounding my birth – for both me and my family – I can see the strength they forged in me. My experience as a preemie shaped my life and ignited a passion to advocate for other preemie babies and their families. Now, I am a birth worker for a maternal care organization. I share my story in the hopes that it provides support for families like mine and reminds others that they are never alone.