Help Allie and Corey Cherish Isabel's Life

Hi, our names are Allie and Corey. In May, we found out we are expecting our first child! We were overcome with joy and quickly began dreaming of the life we would soon have with our baby. At our first ultrasound visit in June at 9 weeks, our dreams came to a crashing halt. Our OB informed us that our baby has a condition that is not compatible with life. She went on to tell us that our only option was abortion and that we needed to "have it taken care of" as soon as possible. We were in shock and did not understand how this could be happening. We had never heard of this condition, nor were we properly educated about all of our options going forward.

We are both believers in Jesus and began praying day and night for a miracle. We begged God to heal our baby in my womb, to allow her a healthy and beautiful life with us here on earth. After a long, sleepless, tear-filled week, we saw a specialist in Maternal Fetal Medicine at a different facility for a second opinion. This team of doctors and nurses works specifically with moms who have a high-risk pregnancy and whose babies have been diagnosed with heartbreaking conditions. After another ultrasound, we were again faced with the words no parent ever wants to hear. Our baby has a 0% chance of survival outside of my womb. Although this time, we were met with compassion and empathy. They fully supported each and every decision we have made thus far and have provided us with ample resources, kindness, and love at every appointment after.

Corey and I knew in our hearts that the only option was to continue with this pregnancy and give our baby a chance. Just because our daughter will not live on earth does not make her any less worthy of life inside my belly, and God-given, the hours/days we hope to have with her after birth. She is our daughter, and she is loved no matter what. She is celebrated by all of our friends and family, and she deserves to be met, held, and have her life cherished.

Every 4 weeks, Corey and I get to see our precious baby girl. She is growing so much! Last week was our 20-week anatomy scan. She has 10 perfect fingers and 10 perfect toes. Her heart is beating strong, and she is kicking up a storm! It is such a blessing to see her growing and moving. We thoughtfully chose a name, as it was important to make sure it was just right. Her name is Isabel, which means "pledged to God." I am carrying our daughter to give back to God shortly after meeting her, and as painful and crushing as this reality is, I know Isabel is going to the best place, HEAVEN. How lucky is she that the first face she will see is the face of Jesus!

Throughout our grief and pregnancy, many people have reached out asking how they could best support us. The best way I can think is through prayer and donations. Since we have chosen to doctor outside of network for the best possible care for Isabel and me, specialty appointments and travel add up quickly. Instead of a baby shower, we will have to pay for funeral costs and a headstone. We are also hoping to have a photographer come to the hospital to capture portraits of Isabel that we can hold onto and treasure forever.

We appreciate anything you are able to give, even if it's only a prayer. Thank you for your love and support through this devastating time.