KENTWOOD, Mich., -- Nadia and Brandan Kimble have an incredible story to tell about how their son, Brandan Kimble Jr., entered the world. Born at just 22 weeks and weighing less than a pound, the Kimbles say their son is proof that "miracles do happen" and that the work the March of Dimes does is vital.
The organization funds research and programs in the fight to end premature births and birth defects, while promoting the health of babies everywhere. The Kimbles say they're grateful to the March of Dimes for saving their son and also giving them hope.
Brandan Jr. is now two years old and thriving.
This year, The Kimbles have signed on to be the Ambassador Family for the Grand Rapids "March for Babies" to give other families hope and encouragement.
"When we were going through it, we knew that this moment would come. We knew that what was happening was so unique and special that we would have to be advocates," explained Nadia. "He was born for this. If everything would have happened the way that we thought... we wouldn't be touching the families that we're touching."
The Grand Rapids "March For Babies" will be held Saturday, April 25th at 10:30 am at the Farmers Insurance Campus located at 5600 Beechtree, Caledonia, MI 49316.
To learn more about the GR event or other upcoming walks across Michigan, click here.
The following information was provided by the March of Dimes:
On April 8, 2013, Brandan Kimble Jr. made an unexpected arrival. At 22 weeks and 4 days gestation Nadia delivered a tiny, beautiful baby boy. Weighing in at 15 ounces, Brandan was one of the smallest babies many had ever seen and his chances of survival were less than 5%. While Brandan’s arrival came with little warning, he would quickly make a big impact on his doctors, nurses and of course, his family as he continually defied the odds and turned a potentially sad story into one of perseverance, success and one very happy family.
Born at such an early stage, much of the neonatal development process was still incomplete. However Brandan wanted to show his family, friends and comrades just how much extraordinary development could take place outside of the womb. Simply to breath, Brandan would overcome the first of many huge hurdles. After delivery, Brandan was successfully intubated on the first attempt and surfactant therapy was given allowing him to breath. It would be four months and five days before Brandan would breathcompletely independently. Over the course of the 130 days spent in the hospital Brandan would undergo 5 surgeries, lung infections and struggles with vision. Five and half months spent in the hospital quickly progressed and now feels like a distant memory.
Today, Brandan is a healthy 20 month old who is still determined, strong-willed and full of life. He is working on his fine motor skills and has continued to make great progress. While the cause of his early arrival is still a mystery, Brandan has exemplified the characteristics of a true hero and serves as a simple and loving reminder to every human heart, to never give up hope.
