Nashville news anchor shares gratitude for care during daughter’s premature birth

A Mother’s Journey: Delivering a Premature Baby at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown

When Nashville’s News 2 anchor Hayley Wielgus and her husband first welcomed their daughter into the world at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown in April 2020, it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the unprecedented challenges of that time, the care they received from the hospital staff left a lasting impression, and they knew they would return for their second baby when the time came.

For Hayley’s second pregnancy, there were additional challenges: she was closely monitored for hypertension, which led to extra check-ups and tests. But even with the extra precautions, Hayley could never have predicted the events that unfolded on Aug. 29, 2022, at 32 weeks and 6 days pregnant.

A routine appointment turns into a life-changing moment

Hayley’s baby girl wasn’t showing the expected heart rate accelerations, prompting a follow-up biophysical profile ultrasound, combining a non-stress test and ultrasound to assess the health of the baby. Unfortunately, the results were even more troubling. The baby was in crisis and her OB-GYN needed to make a quick decision for both mother and baby’s health.

Realizing that the situation was becoming more serious, Hayley texted her husband to rush to the doctor’s office. Before he even arrived, her OB-GYN, Dr. Donna Crowe, informed Hayley that she needed to go to Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown, and it was possible that delivery would happen that very day.

With little more than her purse, a library book, and a cardigan in hand, Hayley walked over to the Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown obstetric patient’s check-in. 

Compassionate advanced maternity care

Upon arrival, Hayley was quickly prepped for a C-section. Despite the urgent nature of the situation, she recalls feeling a remarkable sense of calm. Her OB-GYN reassured her that she had consulted with a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and it was clear that delivery was the safest option for her baby, as she was at risk for stillbirth.

“I can’t emphasize enough how positive, kind, and professional the team was,” Hayley shared. “There was no stress, no negativity, and no fear. Everyone smiled, and everyone was focused on getting the best outcome for both me and my baby.”

Within moments, Hayley was in the operating room, where her daughter, Jordan Leigh Winitz, was born by C-section. Weighing just 4 pounds, 6 ounces, Jordan came into the world feisty, kicking, crying, and looking as healthy as could be for a preterm baby.

NICU support for babies and their families

Though Jordan’s birth was a joyful moment, it wasn’t without its challenges. As a premature baby, she needed to spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to continue growing stronger. After delivery, Hayley was wheeled into recovery while her husband followed Jordan to the NICU.

What happened next was something Hayley had not expected but would forever be grateful for: the nurses wheeled Hayley into the NICU in her hospital bed so she could see her daughter.

“It meant the world to me to be able to see her so soon after birth,” Hayley recalled. “It was such a thoughtful and compassionate gesture that I didn’t even realize was possible. From that moment, I knew I was in the best hands.”

Throughout Jordan’s four-week stay in the NICU, the team at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown ensured that Hayley was involved in every step of her baby’s care. The nurses not only helped Hayley transport her pumped milk to the NICU multiple times a day but also provided emotional support, making sure that she had the opportunity to bond with Jordan whenever possible.

“We were never made to feel like we were alone during this experience,” Hayley reflected. “Every nurse, doctor, and staff member treated us like family, and that made all the difference in the world.”

Gratitude for personalized care

After four weeks in the NICU, Jordan was strong enough to come home. Today, she is a healthy, energetic two-year-old—a constant source of joy and a reminder of how far she’s come.

Looking back, Hayley feels an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the care her family received at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown. Despite the stress and uncertainty of delivering a premature baby, Hayley recalls her experience with warmth, gratitude, and even joy.

“Although the situation was incredibly scary at times, the care we received was above and beyond,” Hayley said. “What could have been one of the worst moments of our lives ended up being a time of immense gratitude, thanks to the kindness, expertise, and positivity of everyone at Ascension Saint Thomas.”

Learn more about our maternity care or to schedule a tour of our Birthing Center by visiting Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown’s website.