For Love of Harper

I love this picture of my dear friend's baby's ultrasound being held by her big brother.  At 20 weeks gestation, Baby Harper's parents were informed she has a congenital heart condition known as Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). 

HLHS is a is a very rare and serious condition where the left side of the heart is underdeveloped.   HLHS  will require Baby Harper to have multiple open heart surgeries, the first possibly within days after birth.  

I met Harper's mom, Elise, about 10 years ago when we became neighbors.  Elise was just a teenager in high school and babysat my children - always with a warm smile and good nature, my kids adored her!  Now she is all grown up and works as a groomer for Petco.  Her medical benefits are through them (shout out to Petco for being a great employer!) My dog now adores her as well. :-)

Elise is scheduled to be induced, tomorrow, February 12, 2018.  She went into labor a few weeks ago and was hospitalized for 3 days only to realize she was experiencing Prodromal labor and was sent home.  Elise has been experiencing strong contractions every 5 minutes for the past month preventing her from being able to work.  These lost wages were unexpected and depleted much of their savings intended for after Harper's birth. 

I am setting up this gofundme campaign to help with lost future wages, deductibles and the unexpected expenses that go along with Harper's care. 

This family has a long road ahead of them.   Please keep them in your prayers.   Any amount that you are able to donate would make such a difference.   My hope is that the funds raised will allow Elise and Mike to focus on Harper and big brother, Mikey, and at least relieve them of some of the financial stress.

Thank you in advance.