The parents surprise the family when a baby gets released from the NICU after 170 days
Tyler and Irve Edmond embarked on an incredible journey to surprise their family with a heartwarming homecoming for their baby boy, Eli. After spending 170 days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), Eli was finally discharged on May 4. With great anticipation, the first-time parents decided to undertake an 18-hour road trip from North Carolina to Oklahoma to deliver this joyful surprise.
The Edmond family’s plan was meticulously executed, leaving their relatives completely unaware of their impending arrival. Tyler Edmond expressed her expectation of a genuinely surprised reaction from their family members, as they had no clue about their visit. To make it even more unexpected, she strategically rescheduled various appointments, feigning inconvenience and creating the perfect opportunity for a ten-day vacation.
On June 2, Tyler Edmond shared a heartwarming TikTok compilation video documenting their surprise visit. The footage showcased the ecstatic reactions of their family members as Tyler placed little Eli in his baby carrier outside the doors of his great-grandmother’s house, his grandaunt’s house, and his grandmother’s house. With each doorbell ring, Tyler hid nearby, capturing the priceless expressions of their loved ones. This heartwarming video has already garnered over 4 million views, with Aunt Rue’s reaction becoming a favorite among internet users.
Eli’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Born prematurely via cesarean section on November 15, 2022, at just 23 weeks, weighing a mere 1.9 ounces, he faced significant challenges from the beginning. However, the little fighter made tremendous strides in the NICU at Betty H. Cameron Women’s & Children’s Hospital in Wilmington, North Carolina. The Edmonds shared their gratitude that Eli did not experience any major complications commonly associated with premature births, such as brain bleeds or seizures. It was a miracle that he didn’t suffer any long-lasting effects from being born so early.
Now, at seven months old, Eli sometimes requires an oxygen tank to assist with his breathing. Additionally, he relies on a gastrostomy tube (G-tube) for feeding, a temporary measure that will be in place until the end of the year. Despite these unique needs, caring for Eli has been relatively easy for his parents, as he exudes happiness and maintains a laid-back demeanor. The Edmonds are grateful for the overwhelming support and positivity they received after sharing their heartwarming family surprise on social media platforms.
The Edmonds’ decision to document their experiences on social media has brought immense joy to many people and sparked a sharing of personal stories. Numerous individuals have reached out to share their own preemie stories and express their support. Tyler Edmond mentioned that they have been sharing their journey on various platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. The outpouring of love and encouragement from others has been a tremendous source of strength for the couple. They are grateful for the opportunity to connect with others and gain a broader perspective on their fortunate situation.
Tyler and Irve Edmond’s surprise homecoming for their baby boy Eli after his lengthy stay in the NICU has touched the hearts of millions. Their dedication, resilience, and the progress Eli has made in his young life are truly inspiring. As they continue to share their journey on social media, their story serves as a beacon of hope and a source of support for others who have faced similar challenges. The Edmonds’ love and devotion to their son shine through, reminding us of the power of family and strength in the most unexpected moments.
