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With the distinction as the longest admission, Ronald Pettinato, Jr., is truly a legendary patient of BWH’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Weighing less than 11/2 pounds at the time of his birth on May 28, 1984, Pettinato had a very small chance – less than 5 percent – to survive.
Pettinato beat the odds and 20 years later, he recently returned to the NICU to thank the staff who consider him a walking miracle. Stephen Morrison, RRT, a respiratory therapist who cared for Pettinato, said it was a remarkable experience to see him walk around the NICU during a recent reunion. “He was our longest admission and it is just wonderful to see him today,” Morrison said during the visit.
Nancy Steiner, RN, showed a video she took in November 1985 when Pettinato finally left the NICU. The scene of the white snowsuited boy waving goodbye as he walked out of the NICU brought tears of pride and a round of applause from all those in attendance.
His father, Ronald, said he was very moved that so many staff members came to see his son. “I am amazed they are all still here and touched they came to see Ronnie today.”
Among those who cared for Pettinato was Marjorie Wilson, MD, neonatologist, who served as his primary physician. Wilson spoke of Nancy and Ronald Pettinato, describing them as having a “tremendous strength and drive” during Pettinato’s stay. “You two were there constantly by his side and provided everything he needed and then some,” she said. “You are quite a remarkable family.”
Pettinato has graduated from high school and is taking some culinary courses at a local community college. Along with his parents and younger sister, Brianna, he now lives in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. But his family will never forget the BWH staff who provided medical and emotional support 20 years ago.