Archive · 25 Jul 2025
World's Most Premature Baby Celebrates First Birthday, Sets Record
A baby named Nash has just turned one!
He was born super early, at only 21 weeks, making him the most premature baby ever recorded by Guinness World Records.
He weighed about the same as a bar of soap when he was born and had to stay in the hospital for six months.
His parents were worried, but Nash is now a happy and curious little boy.
He still needs a little help, like oxygen and a feeding tube, but he's doing great.
His story is a sign of hope for other premature babies.
Nash Keen, born at 21 weeks, celebrated his first birthday and holds the Guinness World Record for the most premature baby.
Born in Iowa City, Iowa, in July 2024, Nash weighed 10 ounces and spent six months in the NICU.
Nash's parents, Mollie and Randall Keen, experienced a previous miscarriage and Mollie had a condition that could make it difficult to carry to term.
Doctors were able to delay Nash's birth to exactly 21 weeks, when they normally do not perform lifesaving measures before 22 weeks.
Nash has some complications, including the need for oxygen and a minor heart defect, but his progress has been promising.
- Who
- Nash Keen, his parents Mollie and Randall Keen, and the medical team at the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital.
- What
- Baby Nash Keen, born at 21 weeks, celebrated his first birthday and set a Guinness World Record.
- When
- Born in July 2024, celebrated his first birthday recently.
- Where
- Born in Iowa City, Iowa; now lives in Ankeny, Iowa.
- Why
- Nash's survival represents advancements in treating extremely premature infants and gives hope for the future.
Parents' Perspective
Medical Perspective
Navigating a High-Risk Pregnancy
Parents' Perspective
Parents faced the fear of losing their baby. They experienced a previous miscarriage and were concerned about Nash's survival.
Medical Perspective
Medical professionals were cautious and presented the risks.
- Baby's Name
- Nash Keen
- Birth Weight
- 10 ounces (283 grams)
- Gestation at Birth
- 21 weeks
- Birth Date
- July 5, 2024
- Current Location
- Ankeny, Iowa
- Hospital
- University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital