Miracle delivery reunion for mother and son with hospital staff

MADISON - A Wisconsin boy had a very special birthday party recently. Preston Wenkman from Wisconsin Dells turned two years old. It may not seem that special, but considering what Preston has been through; it's definitely a reason to celebrate.

He spent his big day with some very important people, the people his mom credits with saving their lives: the staff at St. Mary's Hospital.

"This is where it all began," said Ashley. "They saved us."

Ashley Wenkman is grateful for the staff at St. Mary's Hospital.

"They will always and forever be a part of my family."

That's why she came to St. Mary's to celebrate Preston's second birthday. She wants to say thank you to the people who saved her life and Preston's life as well.

At eight months pregnant, Ashley contracted pneumonia and eventually slipped into a coma.

"I couldn't open my eyes, I couldn't move, I couldn't talk, I had no muscle function whatsoever," Ashley said in an interview back in 2011.

"She was as sick as she could possible be," said Shannon Sullivan.

Nurse Sullivan took care of Ashley two years ago.

"There were times when we weren't sure if she would make it," she said.

But Ashley did make it and gave birth while in coma.

"I remember trying to push and I remember the doctor announcing that he was here."

Two years later, Preston is just like any toddler at his age.

"He's adorable just spunky and running all over and having fun," said Shannon.

"Preston is so full of life, he's just a ball of love," added Ashley. "To see him kiss his brother and hug his brother and run and laugh and giggle like any other two-year -old, it’s pretty special."

Today Ashley's hands are full with Preston and his older brother Parker.

"This is the life of two boys," said Ashley as her sons climb all over her. "I'm a jungle gym, nose wiper, kisser of boo boos."

It was a tough road, but Ashley wouldn't have it any other way.

"They're my sun, my moon, and they're my stars and everyday is amazing with them."

And this birthday tradition will continue because nurse Sullivan and the St. Mary's staff will forever be a part of the family.

"I'll never forget Ashley, I'll never forget Preston," said Sullivan.

'"They will always be in my heart and they will always be in my thoughts and prayers and I can never ever begin to repay them," said Ashley.