Our NICU Story

What a rollercoaster, welcome home Kelso
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About Dude Dad:
Hi! I'm Taylor Calmus, a Colorado-based actor/comedian. I started Dude Dad© two weeks before my son Theo was born as a way to stay creative while learning to be a father. My wife Heidi and I now have 3 kids and over 300+ videos. My purpose for the channel is to entertain, enlighten and inspire.
In addition to Dude Dad©, I have been in numerous TV shows, commercials, and have regular appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live. I will also be hosting my own TV show called "Super Dad" on the new Magnolia Network / Discovery+. Heidi and the kids will also be a part of the show. I am originally from the rural community of Howard, South Dakota.
Our NICU Story
• Our NICU Story
Dude Dad
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[@DudeDad]

SUBSCRIBE to follow along with our crazy family of SIX! We're so glad to all be at home now...

[@jennchubb3200]

I wish this video would have been around 34 years ago when I had my Littlebit. She was 4 weeks past due, ended up being an emergency C-section after they induced and I had to go through labor for a whole day because she was going into distress (I kept telling the Drs there was something wrong and they kept telling me it was my first baby and I was just nervous) When they got her out she had the cord twice around her neck and once around her body (she wouldn't have survived a typical birth) and they still nearly lost her. I spent 5 days at the hospital and she spent 7 in the NICU. (She ended up with jaundice on top of everything else) I didn't get to actually see her until 11 p.m the night she was born (she was born at 3:30a.m) and then only because I was beginning to panic and disbelieve the Drs and nurses that she had survived the birth. It was the most terrifying day of my life. My husband has seen her and my folks but it didn't matter I was convinced she'd not made it. I was only 18 at the time. They released me on Day 5 and leaving her there for 2 extra days was the hardest thing I think I've ever done . I cried all the way home and all night the first night. The upswing was I got some much needed sleep. She was an amazing baby and she really fooled us good. So we were completely taken by surprise by her brother 18 months later and all of his antics lol she only cried if she was hungry or needed changed. The boy was a nonstop whirlwind of chaos. Congrats to you all on baby Kelso he is absolutely perfect and I know he'll be loved beyond measure. (And thanks for letting me share my little story. NICU was a lot different three decades ago) sending much love and gentle hugs to you all💖💖💖💖💖💖

[@AskAgainL8ter]

You’ve got me in tears! I’m so happy for your family!

[@sarah-phillips]

So exciting to have everyone home! I love how Theo and Juno immediately went to the bassinet in the hospital. Continued prayers for your family!

[@jerryjanik480]

In October of 86 what was the largest baby in the NICU unit I lost service and muscle damage in my left arm due to the umbilical cord was wrapped around my throat upon my left arm card so I could stop choking beautiful child Kelso will have a wonderful life experience that I had cuz he has great parents like I have great siblings I hope you has the great experiences that I had in life goes to school goes to college and find something he cares about

[@halliegirl09]

I love you I am a new subscriber And I am so glad for your baby

[@melissaprice1785]

I have been a NICU nurse for 15 years, and this is the best video I have ever seen! You explained all of the equipment in way that’s easy to understand and added great personal moments. I couldn’t stop laughing during “NICU cribs” part. All of it is so true!😂. I wish you and your family the best!

[@DudeDad]

That bloop bloop machine tho! haha nonstop :)

[@robsgirl7778]

Thanks for all you do. Seriously NICU nurses are angels on earth. You not only save tiny lives but comfort parents and family during the hardest days of their lives

[@jerryjanik480]

Thank you for everything you do in the NICU they are very special people out there

[@janeenschultz8502]

Without NICU nurses like you, I wouldn't have my husband, his siblings, or my children in my life. Thank you for all you do!

[@vickicravener7529]

God Bless you! NiCU nurses are my heros. My daughter was born at 28 weeks and spent 2 months in West Penn NICU in Pittsburgh. She is now the 31 yr old mom of 2, little one just 2 months old. Thank you for everything you do for the babies and parents!

[@sahmnancy]

My baby girl weighed 2.5 lbs at 31 weeks and was in the NICU for eight weeks. That was 34 years ago, and now she is a mom! It's scary but modern medicine is a miracle. Congratulations!

[@DudeDad]

WOW that's amazing

[@gwynwellliver4489]

My daughter was a 28 week 2 lb. 5 oz. Star of the NICU. The NICU in Louisville was fabulous! That was 23 years ago. I think it was harder on my parents, especially my mom, because I was also a 28 weeker, but only weighed 1 lb. 10 oz. 53 years ago. Have faith!

[@theinvisibleswordsman1196]

Hey, that sounds really close my story, a little older, 44. Congrats on her success! ❤

[@paigefardell7285]

Wow

[@rachelcampbell8909]

My son was born at 31w5d and was 3lbs11.3oz. He stayed in the NICU for 29 days! He is now a healthy 6.5 year old!❤

[@raimeyewens7518]

It was sweet to try and cheer up Heidi. I was in the hospital on bed rest for 5 weeks. My husband brought in a life size cutout of himself and stuck it to the wall in front of me. Not creepy at all 😂 He is 6’7” and so many of my doctors and nurses were scared when they saw it. Sometimes being silly helps when your in the hospital.

[@mikimisteinberg4016]

I think Taylor did that on a previous birth or was going to do that on this birth, but Taylor is not a giant tall guy like the way u described your hubby.

[@lisaroper421]

That's awesome! 😂

[@queenbee3647]

😂😂😂

[@biker5662]

LOL. That's absolutely fabulous and hilarious!!

[@leza4453]

😂😂😂

[@Curly.Leigh23]

My son was a 22 weeker! We’re home after 161 days in the NICU! So thankful for the Drs and nurses that supported his fight to live!

[@Azia222]

Wow,little warrior 👍🐰

[@cooperhilinsky6361]

I didn’t think that was even possible! Holy cow what a miracle!

[@Clearly517]

How old now?

[@laurenswift9368]

Wow!! What a beautiful miraculous story!

[@pattyputman4409]

My great neice was born at 27 weeks, spent 3 months in NICU. She just turned 15 and is in advanced placement classes in Jr high.

[@jackielopez5225]

My youngest was born at 25 weeks and spent 150 days in the NICU. It's amazing how strong babies are. We are so thankful for the staff that saved our baby's life. Baby Kelso will do amazing things!

[@CWall-tv7gm]

We were in the NICU for 9 days. You could have told me it was 3 months and I would have believed you. That moment that my baby latched after being on cpap was literally the most amazing moment. I cried so hard, the nurse asked me if it hurt or any kind of discomfort-she was asking why I was crying. I told her it wasn’t painful at all it was just such a beautiful moment.

[@DudeDad]

Thanks for sharing, it was such a great moment for Heidi too!

[@nicoleewing1318]

I work for a medical company here in Colorado that manufactures several pieces of the equipment you showed and explained. It's stories like yours that remind me why I chose this career and this company. I'm so glad you are all well and home now.

[@nakamakai5553]

Leave it to our Taylor - he takes a heavy, dark, stressful dose of real life, and uses his Special Magic to spin it in appropriate ways to make us laugh and cry tears. Always the best family to see, gifted communicators and presenters, and I'm so glad things are working out. You have soooo many of us rooting for Kelso and all of you, roll with it.

[@parkerellis2010]

I’m a pediatric radiologist and have seen many many cases of meconium aspiration. I just want to say, I think you did a fantastic job describing what it is and what it meant for Kelso in the short term. I also think you and Heidi did a standout job coping with something so difficult using humor. Prayers that he continues to improve daily!

[@isacecil]

Our twins were in the NICU for 134 days - no matter the length of the stay, NICU parents are just as much warriors as their NICU babies. Congrats on your little one going home, Calmus Family!!

[@adedow1333]

I was so lucky that my extra big girl came home from the NICU just a few hours after I myself was discharged.

[@DudeDad]

134!? Wow. Thanks for sharing, you are truly a warrior

[@rebekahmiller8120]

KZbin is such a strange thing, we (your viewers) get to know you over the years, through the ups and the downs. It’s strange feeling like I know you but I don’t. I call people I watch my “KZbin friends”. This video was heart wrenching and beautiful. I’m so happy for you all and that Kelso is home. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.

[@townsend3982]

I had my son at 28 weeks. He spent 62 days in the NICU. Dosen't matter how many days your baby in the hospital it's still heartbreaking. So happy Kelso health, happy and home. Congratulations

[@DudeDad]

Thanks for sharing your story

[@katherinereynolds3659]

Postpartum hormones plus baby having any type of complication equals one anxious mama! ❤ I’m glad that Kelso is doing better!!

[@NovaLeeNation1687]

I’m in my 1st trimester of a high risk pregnancy and this made the possibility of a NICU stay feel a little less scary. Congrats you guys! And welcome home baby Kelso! 💕

[@madelinevance8954]

Our baby was in the NICU for 2 months and has been home for 7. He was a champ at pulling out his feeding tube! This really brought back some memories!

[@gwynwellliver4489]

Our preemie daughter extebated herself once. It was hard not to freak out as the nurses told us the story. I can laugh about now, 23 years later.

[@caglasow]

As a pediatric doctor and also a mother who spent time in the ICU with my own baby, this hit home! You have given so many families a voice - putting their experience into a beautiful and relatable video. Thank you for being open and honest and raw with your experience. Thank you for the laughs - you gave Heidi a well needed giggle and dopamine release when she (and baby Kelso) needed it most! So glad you are all home and that your family is together. Prayers that everyone continues to thrive 🙏❤️

[@JillKinsley]

2.14 lbs. in NICU for 35 days. Now a thriving 7 year old. I still cry thinking about the whole experience. Stay strong NICU mommas! 👼

[@MrNaylorchristopherl]

My wife and I spent 50 days in the nicu when our son was born. The nurses were the best!

[@DropDMurphy]

My second set of twins stayed in the NICU for what seemed like eternity.. These nurses and doctors are so amazing..

[@DudeDad]

They really are amazing!

[@magnifygood]

I’m sorry…back up…SECOND SET OF TWINS???

[@jus.me.tanzks5834]

Ya the second set of twins I had to reread that 😂😂

[@DropDMurphy]

@@magnifygood Ya.. I have 11 year old twins and 10 year old twins.. My wife had 4 kids in 11 months.. She's hot.. I couldn't keep away..

[@reneparfait_]

Otto reminds me of how Theo initially was hesitant about Juno. Hope the transition to a family of 6 is going as smoothly as it can with lots of cuddles all around! 😁💖

[@daniellej1077]

As a 26 weeker who barely weighed 2lbs whenever I was born, here I am a mother of 4, 34 years later & how far medicine has come today, your little superhero will be home before you know it!❤ congratulations guys & I’ll be keeping you all in our prayers!!

[@l.r.8573]

My little guy was a 26 weeker who weighed 1lb 14.6oz. He spent 70 days in the NICU. Technology is absolutely amazing and I thank God for it every day.

[@julianeturner413]

Heidi's laugh is just adorable.... she is a shining example of a wonderful mother !!!

[@i.am.heather]

As a nurse and fellow NICU parent, thank you for bringing a bit of humor to an otherwise awful situation. ❤️ Congratulations to y’all! Kelso is precious!

[@alexap3361]

I’m surprised at my reaction but when Taylor busted through that curtain in his hilarious getup my eyes welled up with happy tears. Heidi explained it well - it’s so important to have laughs when things are heavy! Congrats on the perfect little addition!!

[@queenoftheecouch-alysad7002]

I've got 3 preemies, all NICU graduates. My oldest son spent 109 days in NICU. It is truly miraculous what those doctors and nurses can do to help our babies thrive. God bless you guys and welcome home Kelso.🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@skyelynnae]

I was born at 28 weeks, 1 lb 1 oz, and was in the NICU for a couple months. I obviously can't speak for how my mom (or me for that matter 🤣) felt - I know she said it was hard - but I am healthy and strong at 25 years old! Now currently going to med achool, hoping to be in pediatrics 😁

[@gwynwellliver4489]

53 year old 1 lb. 10 oz. preemie sending you a huge shout out. Go you!!!

[@megapedia97]

Whew, the sound of that curtain swishing brought back feelings… My twins spent 87 days in the NICU, and they just celebrated their first birthday! Congratulations to y’all on making it to the other side! 💙

[@raimeyewens7518]

The NICU is a crazy roller coaster ride. Our son was born at 30 weeks and spent 73 days there. He was our 5th baby and I would go see him every morning and come home to see the others the rest of the day. It was exhausting. We were lucky to have friends and family helping us out. Congrats you two!

[@LJHYND]

With a start in life like that, Kelso is gonna be one tough lil dude 💕

[@MG-xr9dt]

This makes me feel a lot more at ease. We have twins on the way and the worry for complications is always present. NICU is scary. Thank you for sharing your story and congratulations on your new family member!

[@ghostlyrose8946]

Congratulations on your twins on the way! I had my twins 3 months ago and only needed NICU for 7 days. They were delivered via C-section at 36 weeks.

[@DudeDad]

Congrats on your little ones on the way!

[@weslieonsando1124]

My twins were in NICU 10 days and it felt scary but now they're bigger and stronger than most kids their age. Praying everything goes well for you!

[@Tambryl]

Congratulations ! Our twins were born via c-section at just under 35 wks and were in the NICU for just about a week. The hospital was amazing - this was 24 yrs ago. Seeing all those tubes, hoses, machines - even knowing it's helping your babies, it is still scary. But the staff there were/are wonderful. They comfort parents, explain things, and make life feel just a bit more "normal." Honestly, as much as I know the babies are warriors, I believe the parents and staff are, too.

[@kloughman100]

Congratulations on your twins🎊! I had a 30 weeker that weighed 3 lbs 26 years ago. He spent 30 days in the NICU. He is awesome now! It’s a scary time, but the things they do with the tiniest of babies is incredible ❤️❤️

[@cheyenneomans4995]

Our son was full term, but was taken to NICU after the 24 hour exam because of breathing. We were in hospital for a full week, and it was the longest week of my life. My husband tried every day to keep things as normal as possible, even with NICU visits during the day. We joke that his extra hospital stay gave him his strong personality 😂 he’s over a year now, and we pray daily for NICU families and nurses

[@brianna7565]

I was in the NICU for 7-days when I was born I sound like a little kitten when I came out I had breathing problems and I'm a happy fourteen-year-old I'm turning fifteen at the end of April

[@kaceydewberry7754]

I’m not crying, you’re crying ❤ Welcome home Beautiful Boy 🎉

[@lisabelliveau5804]

I was just going to post that! 😂. And I’m not even a crier!

[@suzannehribal4117]

I know right! Crying through even the funny parts! Love this family!

[@kaycarle8361]

Took the words out of my mouth

[@pedieq]

Oh ya, same! For sure!!

[@carterheinzer]

I was just about to say the same thing.

[@DawnMontgomeryAuthor]

My day job is a biomedical equipment technician. I'm the person who works on medical equipment and my primary responsibilities at my main hospital are the NICU, L&D, Peds, and the Maternal surgery areas. You explained all the equipment perfectly.

[@seameology]

That was my career as well.

[@lucindalandauer1691]

We are so happy for you all!!! Some encouragement for you, our baby boy came at 26 weeks. 2 pounds 1 oz. We spent 96 days in the NICU with the NICU angels in fall of 2020 in Commie Portland, Oregon. Our little miracle is doing so well today. We expect nothing less for little Kelso!

[@katieash1426]

My son went through the same thing. We spent 17 days in the NICU. Nothing compared to others but it felt like forever!!!! So glad your little guy is healthy and home ❤

[@ashtonsquires3102]

Seeing you both leaning over his tiny crib just gazing at him brought tears to my eyes and then a few seconds later I was cracking up! So proud of you both!

[@MB-vi8zp]

This video brought back a lot of memories for me. It's almost the exact story and timeline of my 4th baby's birth. He was born super fast, inhaled meconium at birth, and spent 8 days in the NICU. Thanks to the amazing nurses, doctors, and respiratory therapists in the NICU he is alive and well today, and he just turned 3 last month.

[@AnthonyGarvert]

Thank you for your honesty and vulnerability. This is such a potent story to share, and I know so many parents who have struggled with health complications during delivery and postpartum. Lots of love and prayers to your family!

[@DudeDad]

Thank you

[@jessemoore1457]

My oldest was in the NICU for just a week and it felt like a bad dream we just couldn’t wake up from. He’s 8 now and you’d never know he was a NICU baby. I know this was hard for you guys to go through. I’m glad to see Kelso go home and making improvement!

[@cathyc7069]

I made the mistake of watching this at the cafeteria at work and my post partum hormones had me crying. I’m so glad to hear Kelso is home where he belongs with his whole family!

[@gypsybelle4757]

As a veteran ICU nurse (many years in the PICU) I was loving NICU cribs! ❤So thankful he is home. All are champs!

[@Kait2478]

Man this brings back all the feels and all the memories of our four day stay. Thank you for bringing awareness to full-term, short-term NICU stays! It’s not just preemie stays and it can feel pretty isolating.

[@eve_63]

As a family that’s done a NICU stay with one kid and cancer care with another kid - sometimes the way to survive is to find the humor where you can. Both of you are so brave , and Heidi is lucky to have you! Blessings to your sweet sweet family ❤

[@idamaylara7855]

I promise you this time next year this will be a blip on the memory board. I was in the hospital with my youngest for 2 months, then I had to leave her in the NICU an hour from my house for two weeks. My kids couldn’t meet her because it was the tail end of COVID, but I will never forget the feeling of picking her up and bringing her home, and her brothers sitting on the couch with her the first night giving her”high fives.” Glad Kelso is home, hope you can take a moment to just breath and take it all in!!!

[@reneparfait_]

Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing this! 💙🤍💛 Glad little man is getting stronger 👶🏼💪 and receiving lots of love

[@karlaanderson566]

So happy to see this post! Prayers to Kelso for complete recovery! And.., He looks like Juno❤️❤️

[@redstateforever]

My 2 lb. 30 weeker is about to graduate high school, and got nearly a full scholarship to a great college. 8 weeks in the NICU, it’s so scary, but those kids are fighters and they do great. Welcome home, Kelso, may God richly bless you all through out your life.

[@gwynwellliver4489]

Isn't it awesome to say that! When our 28 week girl had her NICU follow up appointment at 13 months, the doctors were blown away. "We never say this this early. We never need to see her again. She's fantastic!" Yes she still had to out grow a few things, but she also received a full college scholarship and graduated last year. Her bestie and myself are also 28 weekers. Best wishes to your family!!

[@jennieanderson5291]

I love how pink he looked after that first successful feeding! And when you asked Otto what his picture was and he said "Mess," I lost it. Congratulations on bringing him home!

[@kirbyourenthusiasm]

My 1.5 year old grandson will be having open heart surgery sometime in the next few months to repair a heart defect he was born with. So thankful for all the Drs and nurses who care for these sweet little ones while they recover and get stronger. Congratulations on Kelso’s homecoming. I know it was only several days but it probably felt like YEARS. Been praying for your family and am so happy for you all.

[@kirbyourenthusiasm]

UPDATE: my grandson had OHS a week and a half ago. 2 days after surgery he was running up and down the hallway of the hospital kicking a ball. His surgery was on a Thursday morning and he was home that Sunday afternoon. God is good and He cares so much for us. Glad to see Kelso has continued to thrive after coming home and you all seem to be adjusting to being a family of six really well!! May God continue to bless you and your family!!

[@suzannerogers5623]

Our littlest one spent 26 days in the NICU for the same reason. It was amazing, exhausting, discouraging and yet grace filled. I’m glad you are all safely home.

[@WriteWordsAllDay]

I’m incredibly happy for y’all. Sitting here with tears streaming down my face, knowing you’re all home together. Stronger because of your love, laughter, and faith. ❤

[@angelachristensen4153]

What a beautiful moment to see all 4 kids and Heidi on the couch. You got me tearing up guys. You really did. Welcome home baby Kelso! And a million congrats Heidi and Taylor. What a beautiful family.

[@haileybell178]

Kelso is so cute, I am glad he is much better

[@DenisJava]

What an ordeal! Kelso is a trooper. Congratulations 🎉 and welcome home, Kelso

[@mysweetchloe]

I cried. Welcome home, Kelso 💙

[@LowkeyValkyrie]

I’m so thankful little Kelso is alright. All my love, prayer, & care for you all right now. My heart was just aching watching this, just imagining how those days must’ve felt so long. Taylor, I’m so thankful you love Heidi the way you do and show others ways to support women during such a difficult time. Heidi is a fortress of strength & you two lift one another up so perfectly. Heidi, you are an incredible Mother, you inspire me so much.

[@jcfam5074]

I cheered for lo-flow days! Nothing wrong with going home on O2!!! We spent 6 weeks in the NICU at the height of the pandemic. I remember taking pictures every time they changed the stickers so I could see my baby’s face! We came home 100% g-tube fed. Hang in there it does get easier! You got this. My baby is 2.5 and we are finally weaning off the g-tube. Hopefully the O2 is MUCH shorter term for Kelso! We have pics of our grandparents and kids outside on a ladder peering into the NICU, and we had to be fully masked at all times. I cried so hard the day we finally got to go home, it overwhelming and exciting! Congratulations! I’m glad things are more back to normal for NICU parents and siblings/visitors can visit. Even though its STILL a hard journey and experience! ❤

[@lisathomas1622]

I’m crying again. I told my daughter this morning that I hoped there would be an update and good news. I prayed every time I thought of y’all. God bless you all.

[@Carteluv93fixin]

We were in the NICU for almost 2 months it was so hard!! This brought back all the feels!! I’m sorry for the unstable feelings this may have caused!! You guys are so strong!! 🥹

[@hannahgauthier5038]

Seeing him in his NICU graduation cap made me tear up. I’m so glad Kelso is home ❤

[@brynbailey7132]

This happened to my sister as well she had a very quick labor and delivery, my niece had to spend some time in the NICU but it was just a precaution, to make sure no fluid was in her lungs, and she is now a happy and healthy 10 year old! Thanks for sharing your story❤

[@trinity6diversia]

I was not prepared to cry today! I found out I was pregnant again around the time you guys announced this one, and I've enjoyed following Heidi's journey the whole time. She is absolutely amazing! ❤

[@patriciadurham643]

This is so precious! Thank you for sharing!! You and your family are adorable!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@kelloggs7447]

As hard as this must have been for you, I’m glad you didn’t have the anxiety of being first time parents along with this!! Kelso is beautiful- congratulations to you all. ❤

[@sarahcrowe185]

NICU doctors and nurses are a special kind of person. Thank you for sharing the real emotions. And the real story. It's scary to see your baby hooked up to tubes and machines keeping him alive. Our son went from our hands and hearts in the NICU home to heaven. And we are forever grateful for those in the NICU that helped us walk through it.

[@bluejeanmermaid5879]

The staff in the NICU are the best of the best. They saved my oldest daughter and son. I know what you went through is trying, but your on the right track using humor.

[@debVan1363]

SO happy for you all!! As a parent who's traveled this road I'm happy you guys were able to keep your spirits up. Our baby was born at 25 weeks and weighed 1 lb 5 oz. Spent 4 months in the nicu before he went home. We were released with O2 like you guys were, plus a few other monitors he had to be hooked to. It's a journey that's for sure. Praying for you all and hope you get some rest once you're home!

[@kayleemurphy8724]

My baby girl was born at 25 weeks through an emergency c-section. She weighed 1.7lbs, and was in the NICU for 4 months. She will turn 4 in June and is a happy, healthy little girl ❤️

[@kaleethompson4402]

Our NICU stay was 93 long days. So many ups and downs. The nurses are my everything!

[@hdnagnda]

When I worked in NICU, one of my absolute favorite parts was helping the terrified dads. We’d bend over backwards to make moms as comfortable as possible, which is so stellar! They deserve it. The dad’s don’t get that treatment. I’d scramble for a pillow when they had an awkward elbow. I’d get them water. They’d never ask until they were empowered to. I’m so happy your NICU journey came to an end, and now your other kids will now teach you how tough Kelso really is :)

[@taustin6524]

Well, this made me tear up! So happy for your family ❤️

[@gwendolyn9699]

Damn, I can't imagine what it's like. My kid had a low temp, and I was freaking out on that 🤣. You guys have your spirits up!

[@wdlndsstar11]

Such a great perspective! Our son was in the NICU for first four months of his life, due to kidney failure. He’s now at home on dialysis and even just the monthly appointments make my skin crawl when I hear the alarms go off from the leads!

[@16smileyface1]

My first had a 12 day stay (lowest weight was 3 lbs 15 oz, NG tube, and just needed to grow and regulate temp). My second had a 42 day stay (33 weeker, lowest weight was 2 lbs 9 oz, somehow didn’t need breathing treatments, came home on a ng tube for ~1 week before getting it removed). My third had a 10 day stay (lowest weight was 3 lbs 9 oz, NG tube, they also sent us home on a ng tube, which we took out within a few days). NICU parenting is SO hard and traumatizing. I’m so glad you two have each other. Keep leaning on each other because you may find you have some trauma symptoms, even with sweet Kelso being home. NICU babies are fighters and extremely tough!

[@robindick2802]

God bless your family! ❤️

[@nica88]

Wow! He’s such a strong and brave little guy! Congratulations!!

[@jengentry06]

Our oldest daughter spent the first couple weeks of her life in the NICU, and then about 4 more weeks in the PICU due to a birth defect that required heart surgery (an arterial switch). I had pre-eclampsia, so it was a full 2 days later before I got to hold her for the first time. I will never forget the emotions involved with that and can totally empathize with all y'all went through. I'm sooo glad baby Kelso is okay and home with his family. Enjoy! Can I also say that NICU nurses in particular are my FAVORITE? All nurses are amazing. But I have a special place in my heart for the NICU nurses who lovingly cared for our daughter in her first tumultuous days of life--especially the nurse who dressed her in a cute little gown and put a bow in her hair for her first cuddle with mama.

[@vickykleen3563]

We had a 23 weeker who is 8 now. He was and is our miracle boy. 117 days in the NICU. Defied all the odds then and now. I love that this family has used their fun platform to shed light on the NICU life and experience. No matter the reason for the NICU stay or how many days you’re there, it’s still traumatic not to take your child home when you’re supposed to. Those machine sounds will never leave my mind. I could take one look at every monitor when I walked in his room and knew immediately what was going on and if it was a good or bad day. The first time we kangarooed I finally felt like I could be his mom. There are just so many emotions watching this! And going home on O2 - goodness. The sounds of the oxygen converter, the long tubes everywhere, navigating all the stuff just to give him a little bath. And the celebration when he was finally free was surreal!! Congratulations Calmus family!

[@ashleyclutinger4295]

My daughter was in the NICU for the first 30 days of life. She was the sickest baby but with a wonderful NICU staff my daughter is 15 years old.

[@iwanttobelieve5970]

The Nicu Cribs cracked me up. 😂😂 But so glad that Kelso is healthy. And having a baby is absolutely not easy. Bless all of you.

[@jrr851]

Our boy was born at 37wks and was in the NICU for two weeks. It was super stressful and quite literally changed our lives. That was 7 months ago and now he weighs 22lbs... Hes a BIG BOY. Congrats on Baby Kelso. The milestones are amazing, but the "wireless baby" at the end is the cherry on top. Congrats vrew!

[@gidgethern1770]

I have a NICU graduate too. It was a long month and was so hard to leave baby there. NICU nurses rock!!! Glad he is home, enjoy the snuggles

[@2shoobs391]

Congratulations!

[@tazmom0]

My son couldn't wait to poop either! He's 15 and fine today.

[@sunshinesbags]

From a fellow NICU/PICU mom, so happy Kelso is home and so thankful for the perspective. My daughter also came home on oxygen and has had a feeding tube for 4 years and I have the same perspective about her feeding tube. That little button on her belly is what saved her life and ensures she gets all the food she needs. Praying for Kelso to continue to improve and grow! You got this guys!!!

[@tinaperez7393]

Thanks so much for the update. So glad you can all breathe a little easier, literally. Huge relief. Thank you so much for sharing. We - all the Dude Dad followers - have all been thinking of all of you. So glad the first and biggest hump is better and almost over.

[@pineappledad]

The vulnerability it takes to be able to go through the tough times and make videos like this that just show that you’re real people and that really is incredible. Kelso is one badass name and will for sure be one tough little dude! Congratulations!

[@jaimeburke1909]

I just want to thank you from one nicu mom to the other. My son came out full term and gigantic at 9lbs.1oz. He cried so hard his right lung collapsed. We were in the nicu for 10 days. 2 days shy of my daughter who was born at 34W. This was real, honest, and helpful in finding the funny silver lining.

[@carols-corner]

My daughter was a “why is she here?” NICU baby. She finally came home on day 19 with oxygen and a pulse oximeter. In our NICU, we didn’t have a room or a fancy chair - just a curtain and a glider with a footstool and a pillow. We lived far enough away from the hospital that they gave me a boarder pass and let me stay in an empty bed up in the surgical unit. I was grateful to be able to stay at the hospital to try to nurse, but it took 10 minutes to walk from my room to the NICU and scrub back in. I got very little sleep. My son wasn’t allowed in the NICU. He was only 4 and was so confused that Mommy was gone for most of 2.5 weeks. I cried, prayed, and ate sugary treats to soothe my anxiety (a habit that I still haven’t been able to break - it’s been 8 years this month). There’s a real shift in the brain when a baby unexpectedly lands in the NICU. It changes you. I’m glad you have each other, each of your kids, and a wonderful NICU, and that Kelso is home. Hopefully he’ll be tube-and-wire free ASAP ❤

[@pandac2978]

NICU ‘rooms’ must have come a long way over the years. I gave birth to a full term 9.5 lb baby, 12 yrs ago, at that SAME hospital. After a rough delivery we both had fevers, so automatic NICU stay for 5 day antibiotic course. Just like you said, it was a small booth with curtains for walls, just big enough for the chair with one pillow, and the crib. It was very dark too. Unpleasant memories. I didn’t get a graduation celebration either?? Lol, no really, just glad to take home a healthy baby, and glad Kelso went home before too long as well!

[@Braedenfish]

Twin grandaughters and Godson started out with months n weeks in NICU! This heartfelt realism made me cry! 🎉Congratulations ...🎉. so happy for the nurses to see a good outcome!❤

[@tylerhosking670]

We had a NICU stay this year with our daughter. These past couple videos have brought back quite a few tears. So happy that Kelso is doing well. Thanks for sharing your experience, unless you’ve been through it it’s hard to fathom the rollercoaster that the NICU is. Your video captured it perfectly.

[@emmerencia555]

My son was in NICU for 101 days and is a healthy, happy and feisty (!) 11 year old now. Some just need a bit more help than others.

[@DudeDad]

101?!! Wow what a little fighter

[@SarahGraceNesbitt]

So very grateful for you both being willing to not only share such a vulnerable chapter of your lives but also for providing such a positive perspective in the end. Both of my children spent time in the NICU... my first for 5 days because he showed respiratory distress after a long and strenuous labor in which meconium presented during the end and there was concern he had swallowed some. And my second for 8 days after an umbilical prolapse leading to an emergency c-section. There was concern that her oxygen supply had been compromised and she ended up spending 72 hours on a cooling blanket meant to temporarily diminish her other systems so that her body could focus on healing any potential damage to her brain. Thankfully both of them are now thriving. (6 and 7 months) Ending up in the NICU was by far the hardest and most shocking experience of my life but you shared such a beautiful perspective... that all of those beeping machines and wires are set up to ensure the best possible outcome for our most precious babies. And I want to send a massive thank you to all of the NICU nurses out there. You are truly angels to do what you do and I'm so grateful for each and every one of you. 🙏

[@DrRealrellim]

So glad you're home. My oldest spent a week in the NICU (also full term but undiagnosed pre-eclampsia led to a rough start with problems like her being unable to regular her blood sugar). She didn't get to nurse for 5 days, though it only took her a couple days to pick it up (and then, irony of ironies, she refused bottles starting at 4 months). It's such a hard time when you're in it--and especially knowing what you wanted that birth to be versus what it was. I was just looking at the photos of her in the NICU last night because somehow that same kid is now 18 and a high school senior and it's time to assemble photos for the various graduation slideshows, and then she's off to college in a few months. I'm glad your little one is home and hope that he's able to be "tube-free" soon and just thriving and healthy.

[@erinc6997]

Hes such a cute baby! He just came out way too fast LOL .. Prayers for his continued health and healing! Thank you for sharing this! Glad he's home! God bless y'all!

[@naturefleur2062]

You both are amazing, wonderful people and parents. You gave birth like the amazing woman you are!!! Thank God Heidi and Kelso are well, but losing that first golden hour and then first few days to breastfeed, plus all the added worry and anxiety…my heart hurts for you, Heidi. I know you’re strong and capable but I also understand that loss. It’s hard. May your time with him be blessed now and the bonding you work so hard to feel be strengthened now. Much love ❤❤❤❤❤ Taylor your humor is such a gift.

[@jennylhenry78]

I'm so glad Kelso is home! My 4th was in the NICU as well. She was born 34-35 weeks via emergency C-section. She wasn't ready to be born but my uterus (from prior complications) popped a hole the size of a quarter so it had to happen. She had trouble breathing and was supposed to stay for just a couple of days. Just after being 24 hours old the machine to assist in breathing was up too high and it popped a hole in her lung. So her stay was 10 days. We didn't get to breastfeed until a week after she was born. It was no fun being driven back and forth from home to the NICU once I was released. And siblings couldn't visit so they met her on the day she was brought home. Our NICU stay was great otherwise. There was a donor that provides all kinds of breads and the babies "earn" the different ones for each accomplisment they do the closer they get to going home. We still have this necklace and it's sweet.

[@loriw.5903]

I cant stop crying.... i think im broken. Its a beautiful thing to see a baby be able to go home and be with their family. Welcome home kelso! Hes just as beautiful as the rest of you! Blessings. 🫶