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Connor's Story

Story of Connor Joe Wiik: Connor Joe Wiik - Watertown, South Dakota When John and Chelsey Wiik learned that they were pregnant, they had visions of an easy pregnancy, the grand arrival of their child, and a chance to recover peacefully at home. However, at 28 weeks along, they consulted their physician when Chelsey experienced flu-like symptoms, including chest pains. Once placed on monitors, it was determined that the chest pains were the result of pre-term labor contractions that were already 4 minutes apart. A premature birth was anticipated and they packed their bags. John and Chelsey agreed that if their baby was going to arrive ahead of schedule, Sanford Children’s Hospital was the best place for them to be in case of a low birth weight and any unexpected complications. Connor Joe did arrive early, weighing only 4 lbs. 4 oz. Although the hospital staff prepared them for a 5 week stay, Connor met each challenge with fierce determination. Proud dad shared, "The first time he ate 60 cc’s (approx. 2 ounces) in less than 30 minutes, I know he was going to be okay". At 3 weeks, doctors announced that he had reached his goals and could travel home with them for good! The Wiik’s are deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, social work team and CMN staff who alleviated the stress and everyday worries, so that they could focus on the life of their child. Thank you CMN and Sanford Children's!