Dr. Afam Ikejiani, Mr. and Mrs. Chukeurah and triplets
Smyrna, Tenn. - On May 30, 2017, TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center delivered their first triplets since the hospital opened in 2003. Nwado Chukwurah gave birth to three precious babies, two boys and a girl. Afam Ikejiani, M.D., OB/GYN delivered the triplets through a caesarian section. All three babies were born healthy with birth weights ranging from 3 pounds 15 ounces – 4 pounds 4 ounces.
The proud parents, Nwado and Ogoeabunam Chukwurah, and their medical team which included: Dr. Ikejiani, OBGYN, neonatologist, 3 respiratory therapists, 3 nurses, a first assistant, nurse practitioner, certified registered nurse anesthetist, circulatory nurse, and a scrub technician all shared in the happiness on the family’s special occasion. Delivery of multiples can be a challenge for any facility, but TriStar StoneCrest staff showed their exemplary talents as every aspect of the delivery had been meticulously planned and rehearsed. Everyone on the team was prepared for the task.
“We had a great experience during my wife’s pregnancy, especially learning late in her pregnancy that we were expecting triplets,” said Chukwurah. “We knew that we would be the first to deliver triplets at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center. Our obstetrician/gynecologist, Dr. Afam Ikejiani, and maternity services director, Michelle Browning, RN, assured us that they would were prepared and ready to welcome our babies.”
(Left to Right) Dr Susan Campbell, Natalie Baker, RN , Jennifer Mooney, RT, Susan Dunnagan, RT, Laurie David, RT, Lauren Whitaker, RT, Natalie Bouie, RN, Melissa Elliott, RN, Robin Palmer, NNP
“Dr. Ikejiani also delivered our older daughter,” said Mrs. Chukwurah. “We knew we were in good hands. However, learning we were going to have triplets was a shock. Everyone involved in my pregnancy and delivery took the time to explain everything, and ensured us that we ready for our triplets. The experience was overwhelming and beautiful at the same time.”
“You could feel the excitement when Dr. Ikejiani called to inform the maternity department that Mrs. Chukwurah was in labor,” said Becky Rome, RN, NICU manager. “I cannot say enough good things about the way delivery and admission went! Every team member was connected to their purpose of bringing these precious babies into the world. I am so proud to be part of such a stellar team.”
“The delivery was a well-orchestrated event. Thanks to the great teamwork, we were able to discharge all three babies over a period of 14 days without any complications. I am delighted to say the babies and mother are doing well,” concluded Dr. Ikejiani.
“Welcoming babies to the world is one of the most special parts of working in maternity services,” said Michelle Browning, RN, Director of Women’s and Children’s Services at TriStar StoneCrest. “This delivery was extra special in the sense that comes with delivering the hospital’s first triplets. We are proud to be part of the Chukeurah family’s special day.”