Most new moms and dads dread the endless dirty diapers they will have to change. Not Renee Allen.
“I told the doctor before the surgery,” says Allen. “The first time I change a poopy diaper I am going to cry.”
For the past 3 ½ months her baby boy Collin Allen has been at Hurley Medical Center, suffering from necrotizing enterocolitis, or N.E.C..
It is a disorder that affects mostly babies born premature. Collin was born at only 27 weeks old. The baby’s intestine reacts to feedings with an acute inflammatory response that destroys intestinal tissue.
Renee Allen says she is glad she gave birth at Hurley Medical Center. Hurley has the highest level Neonatal Unit in Genesee County.
Pediatric surgeon Dr. Cynthia Corpron removed three centimeters of Collin’s small intestine, saving his life. He had to have an illiostomy bag while his body healed. A second surgery then rebuilt his intestines.
Today, Collin is happy and healthy, weighing 7 pounds, 13 ounces. Doctors have finally cleared him to go home on his mother’s birthday, July, 11.
“It is a miracle,” says Renee of the best birthday gift she could ask for.
She says her baby boy has proven he has a tough spirit. He even has a onesy to show his pride in surviving. It says, “Chicks dig my scar.”
