When little Hazel entered the world in June, her journey began with challenges that no parent could ever fully prepare for.

Born with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), a rare genetic condition that can affect development and cause differences in the arms, hands and other parts of the body, Hazel needed specialized medical support from the very beginning.

She spent her first five weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at OU Children’s Hospital, where doctors and nurses worked to provide the care she needed during those precious early days.

For her parents, those first weeks were filled with worry, uncertainty and countless questions. Like any mother and father, all they wanted was to see their little girl grow stronger and have the opportunity to experience the milestones of childhood.

But Hazel’s journey was far from over.

When she needed additional help with feeding, her family turned to Bethany Children’s. There, Hazel became part of the inpatient Thrive Feeding Program through Transitional Care, where a dedicated team worked closely with her and her parents.

Surrounded by compassionate professionals, Hazel received more than medical support. She and her family were given encouragement, patience and guidance every step of the way.

For her parents, having people who understood Hazel’s needs and believed in her progress made an enormous difference.

“We wanted Hazel to have every opportunity to grow and reach her milestones. Having a team beside us who supported not only her, but our entire family, meant more than words could ever express,” her parents shared.

Little by little, Hazel continued working toward important milestones. Each step forward, no matter how small it might seem to others, became a reason for her family to celebrate.

Today, Hazel is continuing to make progress with the support of her outpatient therapy team. Her journey is still unfolding, but the little girl who once spent her first five weeks in the NICU is now moving forward, one milestone at a time.

For her parents, every new achievement is a reminder of how far their daughter has come — and how much hope can be found in even the smallest moments.