A Momma's Love: Brantley's Journey

Samantha is my daughter, my first born, and a big part of my heart! Samantha started having extreme pains in her hands and feet. Upon going to the doctor she was diagnosed with preeclampsia. Her blood pressure was uncontrollable. And due to several other complications her son, Brantley, was taken emergency cesarean two months and one day before his due date. Brantley was born 3lb 11.3 oz. Upon birth he was not breathing and had to be intubated. They were able to remove the tube, but he had to remain on a CPAP with oxygen. Everyday is a battle. He has his ups and downs. But he is definitely moving forward! :-) Samantha was able to stay in the hospital for a few days because of the surgery and other complications. But unfortunately she was discharged before she was able to take Brantley home. Brantley is being taken care of at OSU NICU and is expected to be there for at least 2 months. Samantha knows he is in very good hands, but is devastated to leave him behind. While she was in the hospital she did skin on skin with him every 4 hours. And she went to visit him in between holding times. Now that she is home and over 2 hours away, that is not possible. Until Brantley is a little bigger he is unable to breastfeed. But Samantha is pumping every couple hours. Austin Works a full-time 3rd shift job and they only have one vehicle. Traveling back and forth between Columbus everyday is extremely expensive and not an option. I am starting a GoFundMe in hopes to raise enough money for Samantha to be able to do an extended stay at a hotel close by, money for a taxi to and from the hospital each day, food and toiletry expenses , money for gas for Austin and other friends and family to be able to visit Samantha and Brantley, possibly a little extra for Austin to be able to take off a few days of work to get a little more time with Samantha and Brantley, and if enough money is raised to help with baby items that Brantley is going to need when he comes home. Brantley came before Austin and Samantha were ready. They have a crib, a few clothing items, and a used car seat with one base. I would like to keep this GoFundMe a secret from Samantha and Austin. I would like to surprise them with the money when it is all raised. A gift to them from their friends and family! :-)