Mighty Magnolia Mae

My name is Kristi and I’d love you to consider helping my nephew Christian, his wife, Molly, and their first child, Magnolia Mae.

Christian and Molly learned that Magnolia Mae would be born with a rare heart defect at their 20 week ultrasound. Essentially, they learned that she’d be born with half a heart.

As some may know, Magnolia’s entrance into this world was challenging, physically and emotionally. Molly was diagnosed with preeclampsia during a regular doctor's visit and ambulanced to Pittsburgh (from the Harrisburg-area where they live), where she and Christian made a hospital room a home for a month.

Unfortunately, Christian is a first year teacher and has had to take time without pay for more than a month, and Molly had to start her unpaid three month maternity leave a month early, due to being in the hospital.

Magnolia Mae was born March 23 at 9:58 pm—nearly a month early—weighing a small but mighty 5 pounds 1 ounce.

Christian and Molly had a brief moment with Magnolia before they transported her to UPMC Children’s Hospital to be stabilized and monitored for the heart condition we knew she’d be born and now Magnolia continues to require hospital care as they plan her upcoming heart surgery.

They are currently living in temporary Ronald McDonald housing in Pittsburgh, since their home is more than 3 hours away.

As Christian, Molly, and baby Magnolia continue on this journey they could use support to supplement their loss of income and living expenses while staying in Pittsburgh and bonding with their beautiful little girl, in addition to the medical expenses they may accrue from Molly and Magnolia’s hospital stays.

We understand that times are tough for everyone, and we are incredibly grateful for any support you can provide, no matter the amount. If you're unable to donate, your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes will be very much appreciated! Sharing this campaign within your social network can and will also make a significant difference in helping Christian, Molly, and Magnolia.

Thank you for your support and prayers.