Hi everyone,

We’re Claire & L.J. proud parents of four amazing kids: twin 9-year-old girls, River and Willow, 7-year-old son, Forrest, and 7-year-old daughter, Charlotte. Our family also includes our two beloved dogs, Phoebe & Axel, who are a big part of our home.

We are preparing to welcome our newest little fighter, Pierce — or as we call him, “Fierce Pierce” — and the next few weeks will be unlike anything we’ve ever experienced.

During this pregnancy, we learned that Fierce Pierce has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a condition where fluid builds up in the brain and creates dangerous pressure on the ventricles. Because of this, he will need brain surgery shortly after birth — likely within 24–48 hours — to place a VP shunt, a device that drains the excess fluid and protects the brain.

Because of the complexity of Pierce’s condition, my doctors have recommended that I relocate to Kansas City around 35 weeks to deliver close to Children’s Mercy Hospital. Going into labor near home in Wichita, is no longer considered safe for him.

What this means for our family is something we never expected: I will be away from home weeks before Pierce is born, missing the last day of school, Mother’s Day, and even my birthday, while our son prepares for his first major fight. L.J. will do his best to travel back and forth to support us while also keeping life as normal as possible for our kids. We are also arranging care for our two dogs while we are away.

Although we are grateful for the possibility of staying at the Ronald McDonald House, there are many unavoidable costs we are facing. Support from this fundraiser will help with:

• Medical-related needs for Fierce Pierce’s delivery, surgery, and recovery

• Gas and travel between Wichita and Kansas City so our family can stay connected

• Childcare support for our four children while we are away at the hospital

• Living expenses at our Wichita home, as we temporarily shift to one income during this time

Our original plan was simple — welcome our baby and begin maternity leave once he arrived. Instead, we are preparing for weeks away from home, major surgery for our newborn, and an uncertain hospital journey.

We are holding onto hope and trusting the incredible doctors caring for Pierce, but the emotional and financial strain is heavy. Any support helps ease that burden and allows us to focus fully on what matters most: being present for Pierce as he faces his very first fight.

If you feel led to donate, share our story, or keep our family in your thoughts and prayers, we are deeply grateful. Every act of kindness helps us stay close to our son and gives our family strength during this uncertain season.

Thank you for standing with us and helping Fierce Pierce get the strongest possible start in life.

With love and gratitude,

Claire & L.J.