From the very first second of his life, Brady Rietow was fighting a battle few could survive. Born at just 23 weeks gestation, weighing only 1 pound, 7 ounces, Brady entered the world far earlier than expected—fragile, tiny, and facing overwhelming odds. Doctors told his parents, Joe and Rachel, that their son had only a 40% chance of survival. In those moments, hope felt fragile, but love was unshakable.
Every day in the NICU became a test of faith. Surrounded by ventilators, glowing monitors, and constant alarms, Brady fought for every breath. Progress came not in leaps, but in inches—each heartbeat steady, each breath hard-earned. For his parents, time moved differently. Minutes felt like hours. Nights were filled with fear, prayers, and quiet strength. And yet, through it all, Brady refused to give up.
Despite his size, his spirit was enormous. From the moment he opened his eyes to the world, Brady showed a determination that inspired everyone around him. The NICU staff quickly became more than medical professionals—they became family. They celebrated every milestone with joy and creativity: tiny handmade hats, heartwarming photo shoots, and even a joyful 100-day celebration, honoring how far this little warrior had come.
Each small victory felt like a miracle. A stronger heartbeat. A steadier breath. A first smile that seemed to say, “I’m still here.” Slowly but surely, Brady began rewriting the story that once felt so uncertain.
Now, at just four months old, Brady is thriving. He’s breathing on his own, feeding from a bottle, growing stronger by the day, and preparing for life beyond the hospital walls. What once seemed impossible has become reality—not because the journey was easy, but because Brady never stopped fighting.
His story is more than one of survival. It’s a reminder that strength isn’t measured by size, that courage can exist even in the tiniest hearts, and that miracles often come wrapped in patience, perseverance, and love. Brady Rietow is living proof that being born early doesn’t mean being born weak.
From day one, he was a warrior. And his journey has only just begun. 💙✨