A Little Fighter, Just Like His Mom

Shelby’s connection to our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit began in 1997. “My mom had severe preeclampsia and delivered at 27 weeks. I spent roughly 2 1/2 months in the NICU at Crouse.” Little did she know that decades later, it would become the place where her son’s life was saved.

Learning about her experience in the NICU is what led to Shelby attending nursing school at the Pomeroy College of Nursing at Crouse. After graduation, she began her nursing career in the same place where her life began – the Crouse NICU. 

“I felt like I needed to give back and provide care for babies and families going through difficult situations,” Shelby shared. After two years working in the NICU, Shelby relocated to be closer to home, but stands by the importance of her role. “It was a challenging but fulfilling career and now being on the other side of it, I fully understand the difference the nurses make in the lives of families”. 

When Shelby was admitted to Crouse at 25 weeks with severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, she understood the road ahead better than most. 

Her son Clayton arrived at 26 weeks and 4 days on November 16, 2025 – small but mighty. 

At 2 a.m. on a Sunday, the NICU team was called. When Crouse Neonatologist Ellen Bifano, MD, walked through the door, she looked at Shelby and said: “Shelby, I took care of you when you were a preemie – and I’m going to do the same for your son.” At that moment, Shelby knew her son was where he needed to be. Clayton’s early days were uncertain and difficult, but every day he fought along with his care team. 

When it came time for Shelby to return to work – a heart-wrenching decision no NICU parent takes lightly – the team at Crouse made sure she never felt alone. “The nurses, who have become family, sent me constant updates. They took the time to care for him as if he were their own. Although his journey isn’t over, it gives me immense gratitude to know how well taken care of he was. The nurses and staff have been nothing short of amazing,” Shelby shared.

Now, at six months old, Clayton is growing, learning, and weaning off his oxygen. His journey reflects the strength of a Crouse Little Fighter.

“I’ve seen a miracle before my eyes – my son. I will forever be thankful to Crouse for giving me my purpose,” Shelby said.

As a designated Regional Perinatal Center, Crouse is dedicated to working with the New York State Department of Health and our 17 affiliate hospitals to continuously promote healthy outcomes for women and children within the 14 different counties we serve. Learn more about the Baker Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

Submit your Little Fighter story with us: crouse.org/littlefighter

Bianca Morales is the Social Media Coordinator at Crouse.