Baby born with water in her brain

An Open hearted, courageous couple brought into the world a beautiful baby affected by water in her brain and spine.   Hydrocephalus was diagnosed in-utero  and the parents were informed that surgery, to allow the fluid to escape, would be required  at birth and that the outcome was uncertain — short and long term.   Currently, the baby is still attached to tubes and monitors, receiving care in the hospital.   

This beautiful newborn baby girl  is at Columbia Presbyterian Stanley Morgan Children’s Hospital on 164 street, NYC; the couple lives in Queens Village.   Every day they commute to and from the hospital for over four hours to be with their baby.  They know their love is a healing balm.  Mom is not allowed to  nurse her baby yet because the baby  must remain in a certain sideways position  and not move much due to the delicate surgeries the baby has had. Mom expresses her milk and both mom and dad feed and caress their baby gently and lovingly as she lies in her cubicle. Both are learning how to change their baby’s catheter and preparing to bring her home in two or three weeks.  They are patient, grateful and trusting of the care their newborn baby is receiving. They are grateful to be allowed to visit her daily—and they have not missed a day. 

 Dad goes in after work and on weekends.   He often picks up mom from home as he knows her pain is great and pre and post birth complications have taken a toll.  Most  of their commute is by subway and bus.  Dad missed days of work the first two weeks and had to take cabs to and from the hospital.   This is after recovering from COVID-19 and unable to work for months while rent and other bills piled up.  


They never mention expenses, never express overwhelm.  Courageously, with trust in life and true humility they embrace their situation and move forward.  

I know they have very little materially besides a roof over their heads.  I have known  the mom for over 10 years.  She worked hard cleaning houses and providing child care.  Her husband works in construction and is devoted to their home.  He does not want to ask for financial help, not because of pride but out of pure trust and faith in God and family, his community.  His Maya Quiché world view can hold everything   

I  know they need  money for transportation, food, medicines and more now and when the baby comes home.     I know a caring world-wide community exists.  I am asking you for  financial help for this wonderful couple and their newborn baby.  

If you can, please donate today. Every dollar counts.

Thank you,

Monica Gallardo