Lucas Family NICU Support Fund

Evelyn Iris Lucas was born on September 7, 2022 at 6:13am, weighing 745 grams and measuring 11.02 inches long. Ashley was only 23 weeks and 5 days pregnant at the time of her delivery.

After years of trying to expand their family and suffering several devastating losses, their most recent round of IVF was successful, and they eagerly awaited the arrival of their little one's December 2022 due date.

On Saturday, September 3, Ashley was emergently flown from Marquette, Michigan, where they live, to the University of Michigan (U of M) due to ongoing symptoms related to a placental abruption. The hope was for advanced care and treatment options at U of M, but unfortunately, Ashley's course was further complicated by premature rupture of membranes. The team was able to delay delivery for as long as possible, but Evelyn was delivered just 4 days after their hospital transfer.

Upon her birth, Evelyn was rushed to the NICU, and has since shown us what a fierce little fighter she is. She has an incredibly long road ahead, but she was born into the most amazing family and has a "village" who loves her so much already!

As you can imagine, the physical, emotional and financial toll is sometimes overwhelming.

From the cost of emergency medical transportation, prolonged medical care, local lodging, and unexpected time off of work---to the responsibilities of keeping up with home life back in Marquette---the financial obligations add up far too quickly.

At the same time of this life-altering event, their son David, age 5, started kindergarten. He is currently being loved on by his grandmas and grandpa, aunts and uncles and local family and friends. Ashley and Evan have been trying to focus on Evelyn, while also supporting David 6.5+ hours from home. Luckily David thinks riding the school bus is the best, is enjoying being spoiled by family, is getting ready to tackle another hockey season and is excited for his new big brother role.

Many family members, friends, coworkers and acquaintances want to help support this incredible family in their journey to bring Evelyn home. We hope this GoFundMe page allows those eager to show their support an outlet to do so!

With love,

Andrea and Jen (~PA school roommates and forever friends~)