I’m reaching out on behalf of my sister, Lorraine, and my brother-in-law, Robert, to support their newborn daughter, Aurora, who is fighting for her life in the NICU.

Aurora’s Story:

On November 15th, just four days before her due date, Lorraine noticed something was wrong—Aurora wasn’t moving the way she usually did. It was determined that the baby was in distress, and they performed an emergency C-section. Aurora entered the world in the middle of a seizure.

She was unresponsive at birth and needed immediate resuscitation and ventilation. While Lorraine recovered from surgery, Aurora was rushed by ambulance to a specialized NICU in Phoenix with her dad.

Aurora is still in the NICU on a ventilator. She’s expected to remain hospitalized for weeks. Lorraine has since been discharged and is now with Robert at Aurora’s bedside in Phoenix, but the road ahead is long and uncertain.

The Weight They’re Carrying:

This would be overwhelming for any family. But Lorraine and Robert are also still recovering from another medical event—just two months ago, in September, their 3-year-old son Everett needed surgery and was hospitalized for a mass (it was benign) on his neck. He’s doing well now, but the expenses for his care were high, which are now compounded by Aurora’s complex arrival and care.

Now they’re financially facing:

Who They Are:

Lorraine is a police officer, and Robert works in local government. They’ve spent their careers showing up for their community, and they’re devoted parents who would do anything for their kids. They’re not the type to ask for help, but right now, they need it.

How You Can Help:

Any financial support—no matter the amount—will go directly to Robert and Lorraine to help with medical bills, the care of both children, and essential living expenses while they remain in Phoenix.

If you are not able to donate, the family deeply appreciates prayers, shares, and well-wishes for Aurora’s healing and for strength during this incredibly difficult time.

Thank you,

Audrey Zannini