On August 12th, Christine and Steven Stipe received the news that their rainbow baby, Ruby Claire had several heart defects that would require specialized care immediately after birth. Ruby Claire was diagnosed with pulmonary valve atresia with intact ventricular septum, hypoplastic right ventricle and tricuspid valve, and small atrial septal defect. Along with the heart defect, Ruby Claire is also diagnosed as severe IUGR with elevated dopplers. Christine is currently 31 weeks and is required to go to Savannah twice weekly and will soon be required to go to Atlanta twice weekly for appointments. She will have to deliver in Atlanta and will be required to stay there 2 weeks prior to expected delivery. Prior to this life changing news, Christine worked as a labor and delivery nurse at our local hospital. Her husband, Steven, is a financial advisor and is also a board member with the local non profit Southeast Georgia Women's Center. Christine and Steven have 2 small children who will be trying to adjust to a new normal. We can be the best planner but no one can truly prepare for the financial burden that such a life changing diagnosis can put on a family. Christine will not be able to work after her appointments with Atlanta begin and Steven will also have to miss work due to needing to be there for each appointment because delivery could be indicated at any appointment. After delivery, Ruby will require surgery and will be hospitalized for an unknown amount of time. Ruby's first year of life will most likely require either Steven or Christine to be home with her due to her heart and the required follow ups in Atlanta. Christine has spent the last 9 years caring for women and children in the community. She has sat with people in their happiest and saddest times. It is our turn to sit with her and Steven and help their family during this time. We understand that everyone has their own struggles so if this season of life leaves you unable to donate, please pray for them. Specific prayers are for Ruby to grow and for the IUGR to resolve so that she can make it close to full term. We also pray for her surgeon and care team, may the surgeon have steady hands and the care team make the best decisions for Ruby Claire. We pray for Ruby Claire's heart, that it is strong and that she has no set backs or complications. We pray for peace over Christine and Steven and their daughters.

Luke 1:49

For the Mighty One has done great things for me. And holy is his name.