Teen Volunteering at Same Hospital Where She Spent 77 Days in the NICU

A Colorado teen is paying it forward, volunteering at the same hospital where she spent 77 days in the NICU.

In addition to being a 19-year-old Colorado State University student, Maya Armstrong is also a volunteer at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins, The Coloradoan reported.

Coming back to the hospital that cared for her as a newborn has been “wonderful,” she told NBC affiliate KUSA, adding that “everyone is so welcoming.”

During her pregnancy, Maya’s mother was diagnosed with preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome, according to a story on UCHealth’s website.

“She had high blood pressure and just not doing well in the progress of me,” Maya told KUSA. “I also wasn’t doing well. They prompted us to come in and rush us to the hospital.” 

Once there, her mom underwent an emergency c-section and Maya was born at just 27 weeks, weighing 1 lb., 15 o.z., according to UCHealth. She spent the next 77 days in the NICU.

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In 2009, Melissa found herself back in the same NICU with her second daughter Sofia, who was born at 31 weeks.

Their experience in the hospital led Maya’s mom Melissa to become a hospital volunteer — a legacy Maya is proud to continue (and has been doing since she was 17).

“Volunteering at Poudre Valley Hospital is full circle for us and such a privilege,” Maya told hospital officials. “PVH is important and is a special part of our lives.”  

Currently, Maya is working once a week as a wayfinder for the hospital, which means that she helps patients and visitors find their way inside the facility, according toThe Coloradoan.

Speaking with UCHealth, Melissa said she too plans to keep volunteering — and that her youngest daughter wants to apply to do the same once she’s old enough.

“We have such gratitude for PVH and the staff, everyone there,” Melissa said. “We can’t repay them for all they’ve done, but we are happy to have that small piece in their week.” 

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Another aspect that makes Purdue Valley Hospital so special? Both Maya and Sofia’s baby photos adorn the walls, according to The Coloradoan.

“I love coming up and seeing Sofia and I on the wall,” Maya told the newspaper. “It’s so special.”

She added: “It’s just really special for us to be able to give back to a place that did so much for us. It’s irreplaceable, right?”