The decision was made to perform an emergency caesarean, and baby Estella Marie was born.
Since then she has undergone multiple surgeries in both Dunedin and Christchurch.
Teresa began to open her eyes in September.
Yesterday, Heylon said his wife was now able to move her left arm and a few days ago had begun trying to whisper words. She could also move her neck.
"It's still uncertain when she'll walk or anything, but she's trying."
Family and friends spent Christmas Day with her at the hospital.
"It's not perfect, but we're moving two steps forward, one step backwards.
"But she's doing great."
She had one more operation planned for early February.
As for little Estella, she was "growing like a mushroom", Heylon said.
He was also now able to return to work part-time.
He wanted to thank the staff at the Isis unit and Teresa's spiritual adviser, Fr Mark Chamberlain.
