After 500+ days in the hospital, today’s #MoodBoosterMonday is dedicated to a very special homecoming. Born premature at just 23 weeks after her mom Tyler suffered a uterine rupture, Autumn’s birth wasn’t at all how her family imagined it would be. Given a 50/50 chance of survival and delivered at only 1.1 lb., uncertainty clouded Autumn’s arrival. She was immediately admitted to the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), where she began fighting against the extreme physical challenges she faced as a micro preemie. She had underdeveloped lungs – causing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (chronic lung disease) – and an inconsistent heart rate, which ultimately led to her transfer to Lurie Children’s Division of Neonatology (@luriechildrensnicu) for more specialized care. Throughout 10 months of expert care in the NICU and PICU (pediatric intensive care unit) to get Autumn healthy and strong, Tyler remains proud of her baby’s perseverance. “She’d wake up another day smiling, laughing, thriving, defeating the odds,” she said. This week, Tyler finally gets to bring 17-month-old Autumn home – and better yet, the mother-baby duo has an amazing community of caregivers and friends celebrating their incredible milestone. “At Lurie Children’s, my baby has met so many people who love her. This is her family forever.” #all4your1