From NICU fighter to WKU 'Superhero': Henderson boy's big night

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Eleven years after he was born weighing just 1 pound, 10 ounces, Madden Baechle ran onto the field at Western Kentucky University’s Houchens Stadium to a roaring crowd.

The 11-year-old from Henderson was named Norton Children’s "Superhero of the Game" during WKU’s recent home football game — his first college game — surrounded by more than 20 family members who marvel that he is alive.

Born at 25 weeks gestation, Madden spent 152 days in the neonatal intensive care unit at Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville. Doctors said he endured nearly every major complication a micro-preemie can face, including brain bleeding that led to hydrocephalus and multiple abdominal crises that required 13 surgeries.

“Statistically, a 50/50 chance of surviving at all," said Dr. Tho