Pregnant first-time UK mom Krysten Risbon was terrified when she started bleeding at 23 weeks gestation and began experiencing intense pain. Turns out, she was in labor, extremely prematurely. More than 16 weeks early. She and her husband rushed to the hospital.

"They said, 'You're going to have this baby today ... He's probably not going to make it,'" recalled Krysten.

You and I must wonder in this day and age ... did they try to convince her to abort? She was butting right up to Pennsylvania's legal gestational age limit for abortion...

Anyway, Krysten and baby stayed strong and pushed through. And by the grace of God, little man Zaylan was born, weighing just 1 pound 6 ounces.

He stayed in the hospital for 181 days after his birth.

Zaylan was finally able to go home 9 days ago. He is now "thriving" at home with his mom and dad.

"When I first held him he could fit in my bra," said the 22-year-old from Altoona. "Now only his foot fits in."

"He's a little fighter."

If this perfect ending isn't perfect enough for you, here you go ... because of the care they received through this harrowing ordeal, Krysten has decided to become a NICU nurse ... she starts classes this fall!

Well done, Krysten. Very well done. Many, many people on this side of the pond are very proud of you!