On March 9, 2025, our lives changed completely. My water broke at 24 weeks and 4 days pregnant. We were so confused and scared, not knowing what was going to happen. Our little Jojo was born weighing only 1 lb 4.4 oz, beginning his life in the NICU at the Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Long Beach, CA. Every day was a rollercoaster of emotions, not knowing if he was going to make it, getting phone calls from his doctors at all times of the day. Our baby boy was fighting for his life, to breathe. Joseph Azael Ortuno changed our lives for the best. He showed us that no matter what is thrown at us, we need to stay strong and not give up. That is what he did; he fought so hard every day since the day he was born. From being poked almost every day, having IVs, being intubated, doctors trying different methods so he could receive oxygen, going through a tracheostomy and gastrostomy surgery all at once. Our Jojo went through so much, but he never gave up. He did the best he could, and we are so proud of him for all his accomplishments in the NICU.

He gave us the best 6 months of our lives, and we wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.

Joseph Azael Ortuno

3/9/2025 - 9/18/2025