Klaudia’s waters broke at 24 weeks. Because there was a chance of premature birth she was transferred from Leiden to Maastricht for their specialised care and given medication to help Tymon’s lungs to develop.

Tymon was born a week later at 25 weeks with a birthweight of 840 grams.

Initially, Tymon was breathing on his own with CPAP support. He went through sepsis twice, the first time 9 days after he was born. After 7 weeks in the NICU Maastricht he was transported to the Neonatology unit at the Juliana Kinderziekenhuis in Den Haag.

At 8 weeks, we had an Earlybirds photo session. Tymon’s weight was a little over 2kg. He needed respiratory support and a gastric tube for feeding, however, his breastfeeding journey was also beginning which was really special.

It was wonderful to see Tymon reacting to the soft tones of his mother’s voice as she bathed and dressed him. His eyes were open and searching for her. There was a moment when his outstretched hand grabbed hold of her lip, and she stayed close to him as he held on. It was beautiful to witness their bond.

Tymon really enjoyed his bath and fell peacefully asleep on his mother’s chest soon after.

Dear Tymon and Klaudia,
It was an absolute pleasure to meet you and to make these photos for you.
I wish you all the very best, with much love.
Natalie xx

The Earlybirds Foundation works with volunteer photographers and is dependent on donations. If you would like to support us, you can do this via the account number: NL23INGB0006262411 in the name of Stichting Earlybirds, or donate via this link. We are grateful for your support.