The phrase "home for the holidays" is taking on an entirely new meaning this year for one family.

Baby Elijah was born back in June at just 22 weeks old weighing 14 ounces. It's the lightest and youngest baby the Maimonides Hospital NICU has ever cared for. Elijah's mother, Erica Mensah says it's the best gift she could ask for.

“I really lost hope. All I remember doing was praying to God and saying ‘please this is my first child’ I’m begging you - please don’t take him away from me," said Mensah.

Chief of Maimonides Hospital's Newborn Medicine Division Alok Bhutada says there's one word for it, even in the medical field.

“There’s no question, it’s a miracle. I mean there’s no question. The survival rate at this point is about 25%," said Bhutada.

Elijah now weighs 7.5 pounds and doctor's say he's finally ready to go home. The hospital held a graduation ceremony for the baby, in celebration of leaving the NICU.