Support for the Nallys

As many of you know, Caroline and Shamus gave birth to the beautiful 5.5 lbs, Ciara Mae, on January 20th. Far too shortly after, Ciara Mae made her way to heaven. Before she went, she was nestled on her mommy's chest, wrapped in her daddy's arms, and kissed by many aunts, uncles, grandparents, and her two big brothers. And these words could not be more true: "If love could have saved her, she would've lived forever."

Ciara had Pulmonary Hypoplasia, a condition where her chest was too small and didn't allow for her lungs to fully develop. This condition was caused by a rare chromosome disorder known as Uni Parental Disomy 14. Caroline and Shamus were given this tragic news at 25 weeks into her pregnancy. And for the next 8 weeks, Caroline and Shamus would begin living a nightmare. Instead of buying pink paint and twirly tutus, Caroline and Shamus were meeting with countless doctors and specialists, making plans that no parent (however young or old) should ever have to face.

As a friend of Caroline's, I wanted to do something. Like many who have watched a friend or loved one experience insurmountable hardship, I felt helpless and useless to her pain. I ran out of words to say (which were inadequate to begin with), I sent her cards, and I continue to say prayers. This gofundme account is an effort to further support Caroline and her family during this trying time. Caroline is a full-time working mom and Shamus is a Philadelphia police officer, and this could be a way to aid them in providing time to mourn. It's something. Just something more to offer this family,  along with supportive words and healing prayers. Something to make Caroline smile on a particularly impossible day or sleepless night.

Thank you for reading this and thank you for any help you can give this family. I know Caroline and Shamus deeply cherish the outpouring of love and support they've received. Here's to hoping we can do something a little more.

God bless the Nally Family and their beautiful angel, Ciara Mae!