Our dear friend Tami has endured a journey no parent should ever face. After years of struggling with infertility, Tami and her husband Justin were overjoyed to be expecting their second child. But at just 19 weeks, Tami’s water broke unexpectedly. Refusing to give up hope, she advocated fiercely for herself and her baby, Nova Lynn Akua, choosing to remain in her hospital room for just over 7 weeks despite the daily challenges and uncertainty. Her strength and determination inspired everyone around her, including her close-knit mom’s group, who rallied to support her with special meals and comfort items during her long hospital stay.

At 25 weeks and 6 days, Tami gave birth to Nova Lynn Akua, who arrived fighting—crying and breathing on her own. For three precious weeks, Nova showed incredible strength, surrounded by the love of her family. Nova’s message to the world was “don’t count me out.” Even after all the advocating to keep her alive in the belly and in the NICU, even though it didn’t turn out as we had hoped, she surpassed expectations and fought every step of the way. Tragically, Nova passed away, leaving Tami, Justin, and their 7-year-old daughter Zella Grace heartbroken. The loss has been profound, and the journey to healing will be long.

This fundraiser, organized by Tami’s friends and her supportive mom’s group, aims to help the family access counseling for both parents and Zella, and to provide resources as they begin to rebuild their lives. All funds will be directly deposited to the family to ease the financial burden from Tami’s extended hospital stay and give the family the space to grieve and heal. Any contribution or sharing of this fundraiser will mean the world to a family who has shown extraordinary courage and love in the face of unimaginable loss.