The Aidan Skye Maternity Leave Fund

My name is Taylor Richendrfer and on August 20th, 2016 our son, Aidan, was born 9 weeks premature. 

Due to Aidan's very early arrival, he is looking at a 5-8 week stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. I have been there every day since the day after his birth learning all that there is to know about caring for this tiny, precious little boy. We practice nursing, enjoy skin-to-skin bonding and love just being together. It is the most cherished part of my day.

Because Aidan was born so early--and because I was very sick for a week before he was born--we were not prepared for the very extended time that I would need to be out of work and the dizzying cost of his and my prolonged hospital stays. As it stands now, we may not be able to afford for me to spend much if any time with him once he returns home from the hospital. My job is relatively new and does not come with any maternity benefits, although they have been amazing about allowing me the time I need before coming back. 

This fund is to raise money to provide me with what every mother wants: time with her newborn son. I'm asking for your help to make real maternity leave possible. 

Your donations will help cover expenses for the remaining weeks that I am with Aidan in the NICU, as well as 2-3 precious weeks with him once he returns home. The idea of not being with him during this critical time breaks my heart and we are willing to do what we need to to make it work. 

Any money in excess of the amount requested will go toward our piles of medical bills. I will absolutely pay the kindness forward for the rest of my life. 

As any parent knows, bonding with your newborn is a precious time. When your newborn is sick, the inherent need to be with them multiplies tenfold. This time means more to me than you will ever know and your help and support mean just as much. 

With Love from Our Whole Family, 

Taylor