The birth of a micro preemie girl, welcomes Pensacola man into fatherhood

Becoming a parent is often described as one of life’s most transformative journeys shaped by love, strength and moments of vulnerability. For Hunter, who became a new dad at Ascension Sacred Heart in Pensacola, Florida, that journey began with uncertainty. However, he quickly learned he wasn’t alone. Surrounded by compassionate caregivers and a supportive environment, Hunter discovered that true strength doesn't come from having all the answers but from being fully present. With the dedicated support of a specialized care team, he embraced fatherhood confidently, cherishing each precious moment.

It all began on May 17 with a text from Hunter’s 27-week-pregnant girlfriend, Hallie, who shared that her blood pressure felt high. What seemed like a minor concern quickly led them on a journey they had never planned for, preparing to welcome their baby earlier than expected.

While Hallie made her way to Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola for evaluation, Hunter tried to reassure her that everything would be okay. However, a brief check-up turned into an overnight admission to the Ascension Sacred Heart Regional Perinatal Specialty Unit (PSU).

After a long night of observation, the doctor gently delivered news that changed everything. Hallie would need to remain hospitalized for the remainder of her pregnancy for approximately 12 more weeks due to signs of preeclampsia. The goal was to give their unborn child every possible chance to grow and develop under the specialized care of the PSU.

On May 19, just a few days after the couple had settled into the PSU, ongoing ultrasound evaluations raised concern. The ultrasound tech noticed the baby wasn’t moving and promptly consulted with the doctor. A nurse then moved them to the Labor and Delivery unit.

“I’m sitting in the room with a scared girlfriend and an unborn baby not moving and I’m helpless,” Hunter admitted. “I have no control. I can’t do anything to make the baby move, and I can’t get into Hallie’s head to take her burden away or chase the fear off.”

The maternity care team at Ascension Sacred Heart worked with the couple to keep Hallie and their baby safe. He wasn't alone in this. "You're in good hands. You're doing everything right. Just keep being there. That's the most important thing," Hunter recalled a nurse saying. 

Hallie was rushed into an emergency C-section, and at 2:50 a.m., their daughter, Harbour, was born weighing just 1 pound, 12.9 ounces. The Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) team moved swiftly to stabilize Harbour for transport.

Hunter followed the team to the NICU, where Harbour would spend the next 92 days. She received urgent medical care at Studer Family Children's Hospital, the region's only Level III NICU. This facility provides advanced, specialized treatment for the most vulnerable newborns, giving families like Hunter and Hallie the invaluable gift of expert care close to home.

During those 92 days, Harbour's care team supported Hunter and Hallie through one of their lives most delicate moments As a micro-preemie born at just 27 weeks and 6 days, Harbour required around-the-clock care from a multidisciplinary team specially trained to manage the complex needs of premature infants. Her lungs were still developing, her body was fragile, and she faced a heightened risk of infection.

Through setbacks and sleepless nights, Harbour, their tiny fighter, and her care team matched her determination every step of the way. Hunter and Hallie grew into their roles as NICU parents, celebrating every breath, every feed and every tiny milestone.

Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola offers a comprehensive range of services, including 24/7 care in the OB Emergency Care Center and the Level III NICU at Studer Family Children’s Hospital. Our team of skilled medical professionals is here to support you and your family during the most critical moments of your life. With a compassionate, patient-centered approach, we provide the care and expertise needed to ensure the best possible outcomes for you and your newborn.

Learn more about personalized maternity care by visiting Ascension Sacred Heart's maternity care web site.