When Baby Layla was born, weighing just 440 grams, her chances of survival were almost impossible. Today, more than four months later, she has not only survived but thrived—becoming the smallest and youngest baby cared for by Dr Strini Chetty and his team at Melomed Richards Bay Private Hospital.

A Fragile Beginning

Layla’s journey began as an in-utero transfer from Vryheid Hospital, where doctors estimated her foetal weight to be around 780 grams. Her mother had gone into preterm labour, and concerns about the baby’s prognosis were already high.

“When she was delivered, my heart sank,” recalls Dr Chetty. “I immediately realised she wasn’t even 500 grams. But then, she gave out a feeble cry and had a heartbeat. At Melomed Richards Bay, our policy is that every baby is given the opportunity of life. We immediately transferred her to the NICU.”

Overcoming the Odds

The first hours and days were filled with challenges. Establishing central lines, ensuring the correct ventilation strategy, and maintaining oxygen, carbon dioxide, and electrolyte levels were critical. Every organ—lungs, heart, brain, and kidneys—was still underdeveloped.

“The most important factor in her survival was the ventilation strategy adopted from admission,” explains Dr Chetty. “It prevented trauma to her lungs and reduced the risk of chronic lung disease of prematurity.”

For 30 days, Layla was on invasive ventilation, followed by two weeks of non-invasive support and a further three weeks on nasal oxygen. Throughout, she received one-on-one nursing care, minimal handling to reduce infection risk, and exceptional dedication from the NICU team.

Milestones of Hope

Despite the odds, Layla proved to be a fighter. After two weeks, her care team began to believe she could survive. One of the most memorable moments came when she opened her eyes for the first time—her eyelids had previously been sealed shut due to her extreme prematurity.

Other milestones included coming off the ventilator and finally reaching her discharge weight. Layla’s total hospital stay lasted around 135 days.

“Every premature baby in NICU walks a perilous road,” says Dr Chetty. “But Layla endured with minimal setbacks. Her resilience was remarkable.”

The Parents’ Journey

For Layla’s parents, the experience was heart-wrenching. Living three hours away in Vryheid, they faced both emotional and financial challenges. “They couldn’t visit often, and every night they waited for a phone call from NICU, not knowing what news they’d receive,” says Dr Chetty. “Our team supported them every step of the way, keeping them updated, encouraging them, and reminding them that Layla was in the best hands.”

A Team Effort

Motivation and morale among staff played a critical role. “We kept positive energy flowing in the unit,” says Dr Chetty. “We spoke about celebrating her discharge, which kept spirits high. This was a team victory.”

A Rare Success Story

Survival for babies born under 500 grams is exceptionally rare, particularly without major complications. Layla’s story places her among the few in South Africa to achieve this milestone.

“For me personally, it was a career first,” reflects Dr Chetty. “Layla is the smallest and youngest baby I’ve ever managed. She reignited my passion for paediatrics. To know that I played a role in giving her family decades of memories with their little princess—there is no greater reward.”

A Message of Hope

Dr Chetty’s message to parents facing a similar journey is one of faith and resilience. “Even when you feel helpless, have confidence in the medical team caring for your baby. Maintain a positive mindset, and lean on your support structures. Remember—we, as paediatricians and NICU staff, share the same hope and desire as you: for your baby to survive and thrive.”

Dr Strini Chetty
Specialist Paediatrician
035 791 5535 | info@drstrinichetty.co.za

Melomed Richards Bay Private Hospital
CNR of N2 and MR496 (John Ross Highway)
Tel: 035 791 5300 | E: info@melomed.co.za
www.melomed.co.za

PROVIDING AFFORDABLE QUALITY HEALTHCARE.