Hi, my name is Marissa and I am the proud mother to Mataeo Tatum (twinA) & A’donais Tatum (twinB). After an extremely eventful pregnancy I was forced to deliver my twins at 31.5wks. Mataeo was a suigr twin born at 2.14lbs with a few heart defects. My twins were born 4.3.21 and although his brother was discharged roughly 5wks after his NICU stay, Mataeo remained behind. As of 6.2.21- his 1 of 3 heart issues were repaired his coarctation. My understanding has been “fix the heart, fix my baby” however as a result of being born prematurely we now have numerous prematurity challenges such as - inguinal hernias, hypospadias, premature lung disease (bpd), pulmonary hypertension and tracheomalacia. Heart issues still exist as well- ASD/VSDs.

To date we have only discharged 12hrs from NICU before having to return for faulty gtube. We have since returned and have been stationed in PICU fighting each day surprise after surprise. This hasn’t been the easiest journey and I have been blessed to have 4 other children who are non-medically challenged. Its crazy to think the cards that we are dealt in life. He chose me for a reason and I am learning something new by Mataeo everyday.

What I really would like to ask for is a miracle but miracles aren’t as available as financial assistance is. We have touched over 1.2 million in hospital bills and rising. I am grateful to have insurance which covers most however as we know there are certain items insurance does not and will not cover.

I appreciate your time even taking the time out to even read my story.

We are forever grateful and want to thank you in advance for helping in any which way you can.

Prayers also welcomed