Adelena Strong-

On July 21st, 2017 my granddaughter Adelena Eileen, was born to Rachel Harris and Kyle Heffner. During a routine ultrasound we learned that baby Adelena had a birth defect called gastroschisis. This meant that a portion of her small intestines were protruding through an abdominal wall defect. Her intestines were seen outside of her abdomen. Through our tears there was an explanation of what was potentially wrong and the outcomes that could ensue. An immense sadness came over us as we sat and learned about gastroschisis. The pregnancy in itself was extremely difficult. Rachel dealt with debilitating hyperemesis and had to receive IV fluids for dehydration. Through many countless visits and frequent ultrasounds, both locally and in Rochester, the day finally arrived for Adelena's birth. She is beautiful! At the moment of her birth she was whisked away to be stabilized. After she was stabilized we briefly saw her before she would have to have surgery to put her intestines back into her abdomen. Within a few hours of her birth she had her surgery. Today my beautiful granddaughter is stable in the NICU at Strong Memorial Hospital. She will be in the NICU for a minimum of 4-6 weeks, or longer depending on her progress. We are asking for help to ease the burden on Rachel and Kyle financially. Any amount is a blessing and appreciated beyond words. Thank you and God Bless!!!!