Support for Lauren, Mitch & Baby James

Lauren and Mitch were expecting their first child on October 30. On October 25, however, Lauren suffered a pulmonary embolism which caused her to go into cardiac arrest on the way to the hospital. ER doctors performed an emergency c-section, worked to clear the blood clot that caused her cardiac arrest, and then worked to stabilize her heart and lungs. She underwent many surgeries over the past few days, but ultimately Lauren's brain was catastrophically damaged from a lack of oxygen, and Lauren never woke up.

As for the baby, doctors were concerned that he also suffered significant brain damage.
However, in what they described as a miracle, we learned yesterday that his brain is completely undamaged and he is expected to live a normal life. So, it is with great joy that we introduce James Rolland Graff-Ness.

It is safe to say that every minute Lauren fought against her own cardiac arrest contributed to saving James's life. For that, we are forever grateful. It is a cruel price she had to pay, but ultimately she did her best to ensure that her baby was safe, and we are certain that everyone agrees that the toughness she demonstrated in that moment perfectly encapsulates Lauren in every other aspect of her life.

 

This was a completely unexpected and devastating tragedy, and we hope to collect funds to help Mitch and James rebuild and move forward. With funeral costs, potential relocation fees, and childcare needs, your donations will help support this wonderful and deserving family during an impossibly difficult time.