MIAMI BEACH (CBS4) – It was a day of celebration at Mount Sinai Medical Center, babies, toddlers and young adults gathered at the 17th annual “Preemie Party” to give thanks to the doctors and nurses who saved their lives.

“Sometimes I think It’s a dream. He was very sick when he was born at 25 weeks and he is now healthy and smart,” said Veronica Zorzi, mother of Michael.

Close to 200 parents and their little ones who defied the odds in the Mount Sinai Abess Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit attended the party.

“This is probably the highlight of my year it’s a great opportunity to celebrate life,” said Dr. Tony Adams who for the past 23 has cared for the babies, along with his partner Dr. Iganacio Zabaleta.

In 2011, Mount Sinai Medical Center welcomed 2,748 babies the most since they opened 60 years ago.