Embracing Eternity with Everleigh

Everleigh Danielle Barreras was born at 29 weeks on June 24, 2016 at Baylor Scott & White in Temple, TX. She weighed 2 lbs. 3 oz. and was 13 inches long. Immediately following birth, she was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) where she received world class care from her team of doctors and nurses. While in the NICU, she was diagnosed with tracheoesophageal fistula and lissencephaly (Miller Dieker Syndrome). Although the diagnosis for the latter was poor, you would have never guessed based on the fight that Everleigh displayed. Following 17 weeks in the NICU, she was discharged on hospice and was finally able to go home with her family.

During that time, eight weeks to be exact, Everleigh experienced nothing but love and cuddles at home. She was surrounded by family and friends who did nothing short of spoil her at every opportunity. We truly believe that this time outside of a hospital setting was a gift from God as so many memories were made that we will forever cherish. Eight weeks to the day, Everleigh was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) following several apneic spells that were a result of seizure activity.

Upon admission to the PICU, Everleigh continued to put up a good fight despite intubation and sedation. As was the case in the NICU, she continued to surprise and impress her new team of doctors and nurses. It was only in the last days of her life that she indicated to us that she was ready to be with Jesus. Following several conversations with her doctors, the decision was made to selflessly allow our sweet Everleigh to pass on her terms. Following extubation, she passed peacefully in the arms of her mother and father. Everleigh truly fought the good fight, she kept the faith, and she finished her race.

Everleigh's journey impacted so many people's lives. We are forever grateful for the family and friends who have uplifted our daughter and family in prayer from the beginning. We are also eternally grateful for the team of doctors and nurses in both the NICU and PICU who gave our precious daughter a fighting chance. In memory of Everleigh, and in lieu of flowers at her memorial service, we are asking anyone interested to help us raise money for a direct donation to the NICU and PICU at Baylor Scott and White and McLane Children's Hospital, respectively.