The Yoder Family Patient: Elijah Age: 7 months Diagnosis: Premature Birth Length of Stay: 2 1⁄2 months Elijah and his twin brother, Samuel, were born prematurely on March 16, 2007. Katie and Tim knew that their little boys would have an uphill climb, especially Elijah who weighed only 1 pound and 9 ounces at birth. As Samuel grew and became stronger, Elijah continued to receive special attention in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Children's - Minneapolis. While Elijah was nursed back to health, Mom and Dad were able to take advantage of several of our House programs created to help families cope with the stress of pediatric illnesses, including therapy dogs, free haircuts, cookouts and movies. Elijah, Samuel and their parents recently returned home to Chicago, Illinois with a clean bill of health. "Thanks again for everything you all have done for us. While I wouldn't wish this experience on anyone, the outpouring of support we have received has really impacted our lives in so many ways." - Elijah's Mom