Baby born smaller than a can of coke defies the odds to reach first birthday

Kym Brown with baby Isabella (Photo: Facebook/Kym Brown)

A baby who was smaller than a can of coke when she was born has defied the odds to celebrate her first birthday with her doting mum and dad. 

When baby Isabella was born premature at just 24 weeks last year, she weighed just 12oz and her hands were the size of 1p coins. 

Her tiny size made her the smallest baby to be born in the UK in the last 20 years.

The Metro newspaper reports that her parents, Ryan Evans and Kym Brown, were told to prepare themselves for the worst, and there were some tough hills for Isabella to climb, including two operations.

But last December, at six months old, she was allowed to go home and just a few days ago, she reached another major milestone by celebrating her first birthday. 

The family threw a birthday party for Isabella at their home in Bishop's Cleeve, Gloucestershire, which Ryan described as a "celebration of survival". 

Ryan, 26, and Kym, 25, also marked the occasion by getting engaged. 

"Obviously it's not just a birthday celebration. It's a celebration of survival really," said Ryan. 

"For a long time we did not think she would get to this point. We are now finally a family. There's only one thing left to make us a real family." 

Kym added: "Our beautiful little miracle turned one, a huge milestone for such a little fighter. 'I am so, so proud of her, the most amazing person I know. Her smile keeps me going every single day."

News
Princess of Wales to lead Westminster Abbey carol service, celebrating kindness and community
Princess of Wales to lead Westminster Abbey carol service, celebrating kindness and community

This evening, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, is set to revisit Westminster Abbey to preside over her fifth Together at Christmas carol service - a seasonal gathering that places acts of kindness and community at the heart of its celebrations.

Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest
Marriage is the safest relationship, latest figures suggest

Of the eight children murdered during lockdown, 7 were killed thanks to the actions of a step parent or new partner.

Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running
Abortion rises in Northern Ireland for fourth year running

Abortion was legalised in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high
Churches helping millions of Brits get by as living costs remain high

Across the country, people are looking to the church for help.