A Trisomy 13 story of love, courage, and the brief but powerful life of baby Adaeze.

Some stories stay with us forever.

In Room 119, author Michelle Stewart and illustrator Kiara Hoefsmit invite readers into a deeply moving true story about baby Adaeze, who was born weighing just three pounds and facing the challenges of Trisomy 13, a rare genetic condition.

From her very first breath, Adaeze defied every expectation. Through her voice and spirit, readers are taken on a tender journey through her nearly four months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) — a time filled with cuddles, smiles, and a love that transcended every boundary of time and diagnosis.

More than a story of loss, Room 119 is a celebration of life, resilience, and the extraordinary bond between parents and their child. Stewart’s writing captures the heartache and hope of those early months with grace and honesty, while Hoefsmit’s gentle illustrations bring Adaeze’s world to life with warmth and empathy.

This book will resonate deeply with families who have experienced time in the NICU or the grief of saying goodbye too soon. It offers comfort, validation, and a reminder that love does not end when life does — it continues to ripple outward, changing everyone it touches.

“Some angels walk among us, however briefly, to teach us about unconditional love.”

Through Adaeze’s voice, readers are reminded that every moment matters, and every life — no matter how short — carries meaning. Her journey with Trisomy 13 highlights not only the medical realities of this condition, but also the extraordinary love, courage, and strength that families discover within themselves when facing the unknown.

The story also honors the compassionate medical professionals who care for medically fragile infants and support families through the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

At SOFT, we recognize how vital it is for stories like Room 119 to be told. Families of children with Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18 often navigate complex medical decisions while balancing deep love and hope. Stories like Adaeze’s help others feel seen, understood, and less alone — reminding us that each child’s life holds immeasurable value and purpose.

Room 119 will be available soon, and we encourage our community to read and share this remarkable tribute to love, courage, and remembrance.

📖 Learn more or pre-order on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXDNRC25?ref_=pe_93986420_775043100

💐 Join Us for the Book Launch Event
Celebrate the release of Room 119 with the author, Michelle Stewart, and the SOFT community as we honor Adaeze’s story and the families whose love endures beyond measure.
👉 Click here to view the event details and RSVP on Evite.

For families who are new to a Trisomy diagnosis, SOFT offers a range of books and resources for new and expectant parents to help provide information, community, and comfort through every stage of their journey.

At SOFT, we are proud to support families whose stories illuminate the beauty and meaning within medically complex journeys. Whether through storytelling, peer connection, or shared remembrance, we honor each child’s life and the love that continues long after.