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In the early morning of May 8th, at 33 weeks pregnant, Leanna started experiencing some startling complications to her pregnancy. She required emergency transport by ambulance to Lima Memorial due to heavy bleeding from issues with her placenta. Several attempts were made to stop the bleeding and subsequent contractions, but the choice was made by medical staff to deliver Ava Lu by cesarean section at only 33 weeks gestation. At 5:55pm the Schnipkes welcomed their 5lb 10oz baby girl into their family. Mommy, daddy, and big brother are so in love!
Leanna, however, despite the doctor's hopes that delivery would stop the bleeding, continued to hemmhorage. Ava was given surfactant and steroids to help her lungs prepare for life outside, but she still required a little help from science to make her breathing easier. The decision was made that it was in Ava's best interest to be transferred by CareFlight to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus to continue CPAP care, but Leanna would have to remain in Lima until she was stable enough to move. Mommy was devastated. Dusty traveled down to Columbus to meet the helicopter and stay with their tiny new arrival.
By 3am May 9, Leanna was still bleeding too heavily and the transfusions were having trouble keeping up with the loss. She required a second surgery at 3:30am to stop her bleeding, and so far it has been a success! She has gotten over 5 units of blood so far and is beginning to feel much better, but after two surgeries in less than 24 hours she still has quite a road of recovery ahead of her.
A room has been prepared at the Ronald McDonald House in Columbus for Dusty to stay with Ava until Leanna can rejoin them. We are asking for assistance with all the unexpected costs that have incurred after such an early and difficult delivery. Money for gas and food would help tremendously with all the traveling, giving the new family of 4 one less thing to worry about during this stressful time.
We also appreciate all the thoughts and prayers for our girls! Thank you!
Leanna, however, despite the doctor's hopes that delivery would stop the bleeding, continued to hemmhorage. Ava was given surfactant and steroids to help her lungs prepare for life outside, but she still required a little help from science to make her breathing easier. The decision was made that it was in Ava's best interest to be transferred by CareFlight to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus to continue CPAP care, but Leanna would have to remain in Lima until she was stable enough to move. Mommy was devastated. Dusty traveled down to Columbus to meet the helicopter and stay with their tiny new arrival.
By 3am May 9, Leanna was still bleeding too heavily and the transfusions were having trouble keeping up with the loss. She required a second surgery at 3:30am to stop her bleeding, and so far it has been a success! She has gotten over 5 units of blood so far and is beginning to feel much better, but after two surgeries in less than 24 hours she still has quite a road of recovery ahead of her.
A room has been prepared at the Ronald McDonald House in Columbus for Dusty to stay with Ava until Leanna can rejoin them. We are asking for assistance with all the unexpected costs that have incurred after such an early and difficult delivery. Money for gas and food would help tremendously with all the traveling, giving the new family of 4 one less thing to worry about during this stressful time.
We also appreciate all the thoughts and prayers for our girls! Thank you!
Organizer and beneficiary
Leanna Schnipke
Beneficiary