Our family was ecstatic to find in July that our sweet Ava was expecting and doubly excited to find out a few weeks later it was twins! We anticipated a smooth and healthy pregnancy but in September our hearts were shattered to learn of some major complications. The outlook was grim and the babies were given only a 10% chance of survival but against the advice of her doctors to terminate the pregnancy, Ava decided to pursue further testing to exhaust every ounce of hope for her babies. At 19 weeks we received the results and a miracle. Against all odds the babies were fighting for survival and they are succeeding! With that being said, Ava and both girls will need specialized medical care during the pregnancy and long after due to several incredibly rare conditions. On top being mo/di twins Baby B (Eileen) has been diagnosed with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) — a serious condition where her stomach, intestines, and liver have moved into her chest, preventing her lungs from developing properly. She will need immediate surgery after birth and an undetermined amount of intensive care. Our Baby A (Jude) is also facing challenges with restricted blood flow due to an umbilical cord placement issue that is slowing her growth. Because of these complications, both of our twins will be born premature and will require specialized neonatal care.

Due to the many complications that lie ahead, Ava’s many specialists have collectively concluded that all of her medical care will need to transfer to Houston at 24-25 weeks gestation (mid November), to be close to her medical team whom is best qualified in handling the many logistics associated with complex, high-risk twin pregnancies, premature deliveries as well as CDH. This means both Ava and her mom, Rhobin, will relocate and stay in Houston for a minimum of 5 months for treatment, delivery, and recovery. With the generosity of our friends and family, the funds raised will go toward relocation costs, temporary housing, transportation and living expenses while our sweet babies receive the care they need to survive and thrive.

Any contribution, big or small, will make a huge difference in helping Ava and the girls during this critical time. Thank you from the bottom of all of our hearts for your kindness, prayers, and support. ❤️