Little Nash from Iowa is making history—and serving as a powerful symbol of perseverance. As reported by Dexerto, Nash was born on July 5, 2024, at just 21 weeks of gestation—an astonishing 133 days ahead of schedule. Delivered in an extremely fragile state, doctors immediately resuscitated him and transferred him to the ICU, where he underwent months of intensive care.
This July, Nash marked a remarkable milestone: his first birthday. The achievement secured him a spot in the Guinness World Records as the most premature baby ever to survive and reach the one-year mark.
From ICU to Birthday Cake: Nash’s Remarkable Journey
Nash’s earliest days were a steep uphill battle. Weighing just over one pound at birth, he was immediately placed on oxygen and feeding tubes, requiring round-the-clock care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
He spent his first six months hospitalized. Even after being discharged, Nash still needed supplemental oxygen and tube feedings to support his growth and recovery.
Doctors noted that he experienced hearing loss due to complications at birth, but that hasn’t dimmed his joy or spirit. With the unwavering support of his family and medical staff, Nash has continued to flourish. “He’s come so far, and this milestone isn’t just about turning one—it’s about resilience, hope, and everything he’s overcome to get here,” said his mother, Mollie Keen, in a heartfelt interview with Guinness World Records.
Her words have resonated across the internet, shining a light on the strength and determination of preemie families everywhere.
Nash Breaks Record Previously Held by Alabama’s Curtis Zy-Keith Means
Before Nash’s achievement, the title of most premature baby to survive was held by Curtis Zy-Keith Means, who was born in Alabama on July 5, 2020—132 days ahead of his due date.
Nash’s birth set the new record by a single day, but both children stand as extraordinary testaments to progress in neonatal medicine and human endurance.
Medical professionals note that survival at 21 weeks is exceedingly rare. Yet with groundbreaking ICU care and the tireless work of medical teams, babies like Nash and Curtis are proving that miracles still happen—and science continues to evolve.
