Mother, baby both survive COVID ward in hospital, finally reunited months later

SAN ANTONIO — (WOAI/KABB) A mother is home with her newborn after both nearly died in the COVID-ICU ward.

A local school teacher, Cathi Aguilera, had an emergency C-section while intubated at Methodist Hospital.

Her daughter, Raya, arrived 11 weeks early, weighing just three pounds.

This was back in November, and the two didn't even meet until more than a month later.

“I know the doctors and nurses did everything in their power to save me,” Aguilera said. “And I did what I could. My body did what it could. But, ultimately, I would not be here if it were not for the prayers and just all of my faith. I had to give it all up to god."

Cathi left the hospital in February. Raya was released from the NICU just before the New Year.

Now, Raya weighs closer to 14 pounds. Mom is doing well too, but needs dialysis as her kidney function slowly comes back.