Tiny Fighter, Remarkable Journey: Leilani's Story

Today, Leilani is a joyful, determined two-year-old who loves animals, dancing, and exploring the world around her. She communicates using more than 50 signs, keeps her family laughing with her big personality and, as her mom says, never lets anything slow her down.

But her journey began with fear and uncertainty no family could have anticipated.

An Unexpected Turn

Two years ago, Leilani's arrival at Rutherford Regional Medical Center did not go as her family expected. For Alivia, a first-time mom, the day began with anticipation and nerves as she prepared for a scheduled Cesarean section. "I was absolutely terrified to have a C-section, but I knew I was ready to have my girl in my arms," she said.

Alivia still remembers the compassion the care team showed before surgery. As she cried while receiving her spinal epidural, one of the caregivers let Alivia hold onto her - a simple gesture that immediately brought comfort. Then, what should have been a routine delivery quickly took an unexpected turn when the team realized Leilani needed urgent attention.

All Hands on Deck

Physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other caregivers came together quickly to care for Leilani. As the team worked to stabilize their newborn daughter and coordinate a more specialized level of care, Alivia and her husband, Zay, faced every parent's worst fear: the unknown.

"Everyone was all hands-on deck when it got scary. They did everything in their power to stabilize my girl."

Seeing the team respond with urgency gave Alivia confidence that Leilani was receiving the care she needed. At the same time, staff continued caring for Alivia as she recovered from surgery, offering reassurance during an intensely emotional and uncertain time.

Care Beyond the Medical Moment

Because Alivia needed to remain at Rutherford Regional following her C-section, the family faced another heartbreaking reality. As Leilani was prepared for transfer, Zay would accompany their daughter while Alivia stayed behind to recover. Their newborn would be in one hospital while her mother remained in another—an experience no family could have prepared for.

Throughout the separation, the care team kept Alivia and Zay informed and supported them both medically and emotionally. "They were wonderful at talking us through our next steps," Alivia said. "They made sure to not only check on us medically, but emotionally as well."

"If it weren't for the team at Rutherford Regional, I don't know where we'd be today."

More than two years later, the memories of that day remain vivid, but so does the family’s gratitude. Alivia credits the team's quick actions, compassion, and support with helping her family through one of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Nothing Is Stopping Her

Leilani's story is a powerful reminder that while not every birth goes according to plan, families do not have to face unexpected moments alone. From routine deliveries to unforeseen emergencies, Rutherford Regional Health System's care teams are committed to providing compassionate care, rapid response, and support for patients and their families when they need it most.

Today, Leilani continues to thrive. She still has her trach and G-tube, but she is full of life, determination, and joy—and has become a source of strength and inspiration for her family.

"Nothing is stopping her. She has made me a stronger, braver, and kinder person. I am so blessed that I was picked to be her mama.