An Inspiring Milestone for Iowa Family and Their Baby

An Iowa family recently reached a momentous occasion for their remarkable baby.

Molly and Randall Keene welcomed their son, Nash, on July 5, 2024, after an incredibly early arrival, at just 133 days before his due date—he was born at 21 weeks gestation.

Guinness World Records has recognized Nash as the world’s most premature baby to survive.

Earlier this month, he celebrated his birthday, affectionately nicknamed “Nash Potato,” against all odds.

When Nash was delivered at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital under the University of Iowa Healthcare, he weighed a mere 285 grams (10 ounces) and measured 24 centimeters long—less than the size of a grapefruit, as noted in a hospital press release.

Just two years prior to Nash’s birth, Molly and Randall experienced the heartbreaking loss of their baby girl, McKinley, who passed away at 18 weeks gestation.

Molly was diagnosed with an incompetent cervix, a condition where the cervix opens prematurely, typically during the second trimester, causing complications. Additionally, she suffers from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that can complicate pregnancies.

Six months after their loss, the Keenes discovered they were expecting another child.

“During a routine 20-week scan for Nash, I voiced some concerns about my symptoms, and they took a closer look—something they don’t usually do at that appointment. That’s when we learned I had already dilated by 2 centimeters,” Molly explained.

A few days later, she began experiencing contractions and was placed on bed rest.

“We were devastated. I thought we were going through the exact same situation,” she recalled. “It felt like we were losing this baby too.”

The medical staff at the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) specializes in providing critical care for infants born as early as 21 weeks.

Fortunately, the team managed to delay Nash’s delivery until just 10 hours after he crossed the 21-week threshold.

“We aim to provide the best care for our patients. We always have to be candid about the uncertainty surrounding such premature births,” Dr. Malinda Schaefer, the high-risk obstetrician who assisted with Nash’s birth, said. “Survival rates are generally low, and if a baby does survive, there’s often a high risk of long-term complications.”

Immediately, the medical team administered medication to help with Nash’s organ development and lower the chances of complications.

“Infants born at 21 weeks can be too small for our smallest breathing tubes or even the IV lines,” said neonatologist Dr. Amy Stanford, who provided care for Nash. “Our NICU team quickly evaluated Nash and was able to insert a breathing tube, stabilizing his heart rate and ensuring adequate oxygen levels.”

Despite these efforts, Nash’s survival wasn’t guaranteed. Previous cases of such premature births had often ended in tragedy.

Before Nash, the record for the earliest surviving infant was held by Curtis Zay Keith Means, who was born at 21 weeks and one day on July 5, 2020, surviving after being born 132 days early.

“While we never want to give up hope, we also have to be realistic about the circumstances,” Dr. Patrick McNamara, division director of Neonatology, mentioned. “I told his parents that the odds were zero, but I hoped to be proven wrong.”

As days went by, the staff and family began to feel a shift. “It was definitely a turning point when we started feeling a bit more optimistic,” Stanford said. “Though Nash had a long road ahead, we began to believe he could really go home someday.”

Over the course of 198 days in the hospital, Nash received extensive care, including a surgery for a perforated intestine that poses significant risks. His condition improved with ongoing treatment, and both parents appreciated the frankness of the medical team about Nash’s progress.

“They were genuinely supportive, guiding us every step of the way. They made sure we were informed and involved in all decisions,” Randall remarked.

After more than six months of hospitalization, Nash was able to return home in January 2025. He continues to be monitored for various health concerns, including mild cardiac issues, and is in the process of transitioning away from oxygen support. Currently, he still relies on a feeding tube and wears hearing aids.

According to Molly, while Nash has faced some developmental delays, he is making significant progress with help from ongoing therapies.

Stanford expressed hope about Nash’s future. “The goal is for him to not have any lasting effects by the time he’s five and ready for kindergarten.”

Molly wants Nash to know how cherished he is. “My wish is for him to grow up healthy and confident in himself, and to view his journey as a source of strength.”