My son Landon Sharif Barr was born at just 27 weeks. At 1 pound 14 ounces. I remember how scared I was seeing my baby so tiny, not being able to hold him after birthing him. How can the happiest day of my life be the scariest day of my life? Landon was in the Nicu for 60 days. 60 days of joy, tears, heartache, happiness. It was hard, being a mom is hard, you think its your fault that your baby is in this position but moms it’s not and we need to give ourselves more credit and less pressure. My son was/is a fighter since the very first moment he entered the world. We call him Landon strong for a reason. He fought for his life, he fought to grow and thrive. Every day was not always easy but today at 12 months my son is 24 pounds happy as ever and healthy. During my time in the Nicu every single person I encountered at HACKENSACK UMC took outstanding care of my son and also my finance and I. I could tell there was such dedication in helping these children and supporting the families. My 60 days were better because I knew when I was not able to be with my son he was being well taken care of. Having a premature baby was so traumatizing and till this day I still suffer from PTSD, but I wouldn’t change anything. My son for some reason was meant to go through his tough time and over come it. He graduated his 60 days and fought hard that’s why we call him #LANDONSTRONG. My son is my greatest blessing in the entire world and I would not change a thing that we have been through.

Follow Landon on Instagram @landonstrong8.2 to see his journey and growth :)