Help Support Baby Jemimah’s Journey With Spina Bifida

On September 29, 2025, Andrew and Kezia Canfield welcomed their precious daughter, Jemimah, into the world. What should have been a joyful and ordinary beginning quickly turned into a whirlwind of uncertainty.

At birth, it was discovered that sweet Jemimah has spina bifida, a serious condition. She was immediately transferred to the NICU in Iowa City, where doctors diagnosed her with the most severe form of spina bifida, called myelomeningocele.

Just three days after birth, Jemimah underwent a complex and delicate surgery to close the opening in her spine. Following the surgery, she spent five and a half days sedated, on a ventilator, and lying prone on her stomach—unable to be held or cuddled by her parents.

Finally, after nearly a week, Kezia and Andrew were able to hold their little girl again—an emotional milestone they’ll never forget.

Since then, Jemimah has been weaned off sedative medications and taken off the ventilator, continuing to show strength and progress every day. Her doctors remain cautiously optimistic, but there are still many challenges ahead.

They are carefully monitoring for hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain), which may still develop in the coming weeks. Her kidney and bladder function are also under observation, as they may have been affected. So far, she does not have normal mobility in her legs, but it will take time to fully understand the extent of the impact.

Despite everything, Jemimah is making encouraging progress, and for that, her parents and family give thanks to God.

Jemimah will remain in the NICU for some time yet. Once she’s discharged, the journey is far from over. She will face months and years of therapy, specialist visits, and ongoing monitoring to support her development and manage the complications of spina bifida.

How You Can Help

This GoFundMe has been created to help Andrew and Kezia navigate the unexpected financial strain that comes with Jemimah’s medical needs. Your support will help cover:

•Hospital and surgical bills

•Travel and lodging expenses for ongoing visits to Iowa City

•Future therapies, medical equipment, and specialist care

•Everyday costs while Andrew and Kezia take time away from work to care for Jemimah

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. If you’re unable to give, your prayers, kind words, and shares are equally appreciated.

Thank you for standing with the Canfield family as they walk this road with courage, faith, and hope.