‘Indescribable’: Family overjoyed to take son born at 23 weeks home from NICU

After spending nearly 12 months fighting for his life in the NICU following his birth at just 23 weeks, Baby Aasiah Malcom is home with his parents and two older brothers — just in time to celebrate his first birthday.

Key Takeaways:

• Aasiah Malcom was born at just 23 weeks.

• His parents, who had previously lost a son born prematurely, were determined to save his life.

• After nearly a year in the NICU, Aasiah was discharged to be with his family at home.

• His parents are thinking of starting an organization to help other families who experience the loss of a baby or a NICU stay.

The Details:

Aasiah was born last year at just 23 weeks, weighing barely more than a pound. He was diagnosed with chronic lung disease and his parents were prepared for him to die peacefully, but Aasiah pulled through.

Baby comes home after 11 months in NICU

Aasiah’s doctor hadn’t been sure the baby would make it. His parents continued to pray and believe in him. The Malcoms have known the pain of losing a premature baby, as they lost their first child, Jiyah. They were determined to help save Aasiah’s life.

“We've been through that before, and we didn’t want that kind of pain, and we knew there was something that could be done,” said Rhyelle Malcom.

As the months went by, DeVonte, Rhyelle, and sons, Meyomi, 2, and Raiyon, 4, helped each other stay strong for Aasiah. 

After months of watching other families leave the NICU with their babies, the Malcoms’ turn finally came.

“And when it came, the feeling was indescribable,” Rhyelle said.

DeVonte and Rhyelle Malcom are thinking of founding an organization called “Abundance of Love” for families like their own, who experience the loss of a baby or a NICU stay.

Aasiah’s dad, DeVonte Malcom told 13 Action News it finally feels his family is “complete,” now that Aasiah is home, according to PEOPLE.

Mom Rhyelle described Aasiah’s resilience: “You never would’ve known he went through the things he went through, looking at him.”

The Bottom Line:

Multiple states allow preborn children to be killed in the womb at 23 weeks — the age at which Aasiah was born — and even beyond, up until birth. Live Action News has documented dozens of cases of preemies, including micro-preemies, surviving birth and thriving. Parents and babies deserve better than abortion.