Jessia-Jane Applegate gave birth to her daughter, Alara, at just 23 weeks gestation on May 29, 2026. Her tiny little girl has fought hard in the NICU for the last several weeks, and her proud mama shared an encouraging update on July 22.
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“Yesterday was a huge milestone for our little warrior. After nearly two weeks of repeated lung collapses, being treated with antibiotics for suspected NEC, and being diagnosed with an underactive thyroid, Alara was finally able to come off the ventilator and move onto BiPAP,” Jessica-Jane Applegate wrote. “She has now managed over 12 hours on BiPAP, and we couldn’t be prouder. It’s another incredible step forward, and she’s continuing to show everyone just how strong and determined she is.”
Jessica-Jane Applegate Wants to Savor Every Moment
The proud mama explained that although she and her partner, Declan Jermy, understand their baby girl has many more tough days ahead, they want to cherish every win.
“We know there is still a long journey ahead, with her immunisations this Friday and her first eye screening next Tuesday, but for today we’re celebrating this huge achievement,” Jessica-Jane Applegate wrote. “As always, thank you to everyone who continues to support us, donate, share our story, and keep Alara in your thoughts. Your kindness has helped carry us through the hardest days, and we’ll never be able to thank you enough.”
Fans shared their excitement for Alara and her parents.
“I have a 23+0 who sounds so similar to your sweet girl. She’ll be 6 this week. Sending you all the love rn. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, too,” a parent wrote.
This person agreed, writing, “Keep fighting little one…. your strength Jessica is helping her fight too, keep believing.”
This story’s featured image is by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
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