My name is Tracey Putz, there aren’t many of you that know my youngest sister, Bobbi Nicholas, for those that do, you are quite blessed. Bobbi is a wonderful mother of a 3-year-old little boy, step-mom to a 13-year-old girl, a devoted soldier’s wife, whom both have sacrificed for our country, as well as being the type of person that would give all she could to help anyone that was in need. Now they need our assistance.
 
On December 10, 2019, she was admitted for severe bleeding with visible, large clots. Upon further assessment, Bobbi was sent to Abbott Northwestern, Mother Baby Center, in Minneapolis via ambulance on December 14, 2019 for more specialized, advanced evaluation and care. It was there that Bobbi was diagnosed with placenta previa, a condition where the placenta covers the cervix. This condition has 3 levels: marginal, partial, or complete, Bobbi is at stage 3: complete covering of the entire cervix; meaning she is unable to give birth the traditional way.  At the same time, she was also diagnosed with placenta accreta, a condition where the placenta has grown deeply into the uterine wall; this is a rare condition, occurring in approximately 0.2% of all pregnancies. Placenta accreta is considered a serious medical condition that requires a C-section under very close supervision, typically resulting in a total hysterectomy.  Also, during this same time, Bobbi found out she had developed an antibody in her blood after her massive blood transfusions in 2016 after the delivery of her son, when the surgeon accidently nicked an artery; meaning any blood she now receives has to be tested prior to being given to make sure her body will not attack and reject it.  It is because of these conditions that Bobbi has been required to stay in Minneapolis so that if any complications arises, there is a higher likelihood of survival for both mother and baby.  Bobbi will be required to have a C-section at 34 weeks gestation, which offers the best chance of minimizing risks. This is scheduled for January 17, 2020.  During this C-section, there will be a minimum of 4-5 specialists present.  This is an unconventional C-section as you are not able to cut into the placenta, so there must be enough blood available for transfusion to Bobbi, as well as a NICU to take Baby Nicholas quickly.
 
Bobbi has not been home or been able to be at work since December 10, 2019.  Because of the unexpected medical costs (double deductible now for 2019 & 2020, hospitalization stays for both Bobbi and baby), Matt having to take time off work to drive several hours to see his wife and for Bobbi to see her family, additional recovery time for Bobbi, I am asking for your help to lighten the financial burden on them.  Both Matt & Bobbi have exhausted all PTO and sick leave accruals that had been saved for maternity/paternity leave.  Please take some time to pray on this, pray for the family, pray for Matt to continue to be strong and supportive to his wife, take care of their son and daughter while his wife is away, and to lessen the struggle with not being together; for Bobbi, that even with the impending uncertainty, that she continue to have hope, feel the love of all that support her, and know that she is not alone; and for baby’s early delivery.  If you find it in your heart, please consider donating. Absolutely, all funds are going to support Matt and Bobbi (they would never ask for this, so our family is doing this on their behalf).
 
At this time, we would request that there is little to no texting or calling to Matt or Bobbi - all updates will be posted here and you are welcome to reach out to anyone in the family, or post questions here that I will check and address frequently.
 
From the bottom of our hearts, may God bless you all, and thank you!