It’s a big day for The Amazing Ryder Newbold. Today, this incredible 11-month-old marks another milestone in his remarkable journey of survival and growth. Ryder’s story is one of grit, determination, and the unwavering love and support of his family.
Last January 30th, Ryder entered the world 17 weeks earlier than expected, defying the odds from the very start. His mother, Brittany Newbold, an assistant principal at Moody High School, was told that her cervix was failing and that Ryder’s umbilical cord was wrapped in his amniotic sack. Despite these challenges, Ryder was delivered at just 23 weeks and 2 days, weighing a mere 1.5 pounds. The medical team worked quickly, and as soon as Ryder was born, the battle for his life began.
Ryder’s parents, Brittany and her husband Eugene, a Hoover policeman, faced a terrifying and uncertain future. They knew that Ryder had a long road ahead, but they also knew that they had a strong support system in place. Family, friends, and co-workers rallied around them, offering prayers and love to help get Ryder through each day. With the strength of their support, Ryder began to grow and fight, defying the odds that seemed stacked against him.
After months of intensive care, Ryder was discharged from the hospital this past July. It was a moment of triumph, not only for Ryder but for his entire family. They had made it through the most challenging part of their journey, and as they looked forward to the future, they were filled with hope and gratitude.
Nine months after Ryder’s discharge, Brittany shared a heartwarming update about her little miracle. Ryder, now 11 months old (or 7 months old corrected for his preemie status), is thriving. Brittany shared that, except for a current cold, Ryder has been pretty healthy so far. He now weighs over 21 pounds and has made significant progress with his development. One of his biggest milestones is his transition to baby food three times a day — food has quickly become one of Ryder’s favorite things!
Ryder has also made incredible strides in his physical development. He is now off all daytime oxygen, a huge step for any preemie, and now only uses oxygen support for naps and bedtime. He’s mastered rolling in both directions, rocking on his hands and knees, and even crawling backwards (but don’t worry, he’ll be crawling forward soon enough). Ryder can sit independently and even hold his own bottle, although, as Brittany notes with a laugh, he only does so when he feels like it. Ryder is, after all, a master at being stubborn!
Ryder’s personality shines through in everything he does. He adores his big brother Raylan, lighting up whenever Raylan walks into the room. Brittany and Eugene can only hope that this sibling bond continues to grow as the years go by. The love and joy between these brothers is already evident, and it’s clear that their connection will be something special for years to come.
Looking ahead, the Newbold family is excited for a much calmer 2026. Ryder’s first birthday, which will be celebrated at the end of January, is a huge milestone, and it’s a moment that Brittany and Eugene have been dreaming of since the day Ryder was born. Despite the challenges, despite the setbacks, Ryder is here, and he’s thriving — a true testament to his strength and the unwavering love of his family.
Brittany’s message is filled with hope and gratitude, and it’s clear that the family feels incredibly blessed as they step into the new year. Ryder’s progress is nothing short of a miracle, and every day is a reminder of just how far he’s come. It’s a beautiful story of resilience and love, and as they celebrate Ryder’s first birthday, the Newbold family is filled with joy, knowing that Ryder’s future is brighter than ever.
The amazing Ryder Newbold has proven that no challenge is too great when you have love, faith, and determination. As we look forward to 2026, we join the Newbold family in celebrating this incredible little boy and the amazing journey he’s already been on. Let’s continue to send our best to Ryder and the entire Newbold family, offering prayers and support as they embrace this next chapter in their lives.
Thank you to Brittany for sharing this beautiful update and for offering such a positive, heartwarming message today. Ryder’s story is one that inspires us all, and as we enter the new year, we can’t wait to see all the great things that await this amazing little boy and his family. Here’s to Ryder — a true miracle, a fighter, and a source of endless joy for all who know him.
Special thanks to Brittany for the pictures and for keeping us updated on Ryder’s incredible journey.
