Bethpage couple thankful to TriStar Hendersonville NICU for caring for their miracle baby

After having two tubal pregnancies and losing both of her tubes, Neena Smith was unsure that she would ever have children. Neena, a nurse at TriStar Skyline Medical Center, knew the obstacles facing her and her husband Jonathon, but embarked on the long journey of in vitro fertilization (IVF) to have their miracle baby, Leilani.

“I was so thankful to be an HCA Healthcare employee because they provide insurance for IVF, and our sweet miracle would not be here without it,” said Neena. “Once we conceived, we knew we wanted to find a place to deliver closer than TriStar Centennial because of the drive and the complexity of our pregnancy. TriStar Hendersonville offered us the expertise we needed closer to our home in Bethpage.”

Neena’s OB/GYN, Dr. Brandon Riggan at Centennial Women’s Group - Bluegrass OB/GYN, worked with specialists at TriStar Centennial throughout her pregnancy.  At 30 weeks, Neena found that she needed to deliver. Leilani arrived at 2 lbs, 13 oz and was a fighter from the beginning.

“Delivering 10 weeks early was very scary, especially having a nursing background and knowing what I know,” said Neena. “But, all the nurses, doctors, nurse practitioners, everyone at TriStar Hendersonville are truly amazing and have explained everything to me, making me feel at ease. They made a very stressful experience much easier for our entire family.”

Neena is very thankful for the private NICU rooms that are available to her and her family at TriStar Hendersonville. They also love the monitor camera and are thankful they are able to watch their baby from home or wherever they may be.

“We have all been very well taken care of at TriStar Hendersonville and especially in the Birth Center,” said Neena.

Today, Leilani is 3 lbs., 12 oz. and continues to hit her goals, exceeding expectations. Neena anticipates being able to bring home her “Rockstar,” as she has been nicknamed by the NICU staff, in a few weeks.