Heartwarming Full Circle: NICU Baby Heads Home After 9 Months with the Same Neonatal Doctor Who Treated Her Mom

A newborn who defied the odds by entering the world weighing just over a pound has finally left the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and returned home after an extensive 285-day stay at a hospital in New Jersey.

The infant’s care was entrusted to a doctor with a special connection: the same physician who had saved her mother’s life thirty years ago.

Born at just 24 weeks, Myla’s early arrival was prompted by complications experienced by her mother, Chi Obufor, last May.

“The journey has been tough, challenging, and exhausting,” Obufor shared.

Her mother had encouraged her to visit Virtua Voorhees Hospital for a check-up, a decision that resulted in Myla’s premature birth and prolonged NICU journey.

Obufor soon learned that her daughter’s care team included the same doctor and nurse who treated her 31 years earlier.

“My mom’s lit up and she’s like, ‘That’s him,’” she said. “Seeing how happy and excited she was gave me peace of mind that I am exactly where I need to be.”

Dr. Leonard Goldsmith, an attending neonatologist, said the experience was deeply meaningful.

“It was a very fulfilling experience. I can remember with clarity taking care of Chi and her mom like it was yesterday, and skip ahead 31 years later and it’s like déjà vu all over again,” he said.

Myla’s discharge prompted an emotional sendoff from staff who had cared for her since birth. Her family says they are grateful for the team that supported both generations through life-threatening moments.