Matthew De La Torre

Early in the pregnancy, some severe medical events happened that almost certainly suggested a miscarriage. Rachel and Alex were overjoyed to learn that he was still there. Then it was discovered that some of Matthew’s organs were growing outside his abdomen (a condition called omphalocele). He also had 3 heart defects.

The risks leading up to birth were very high for both mom and baby. Rachel spent the last 8 weeks of the pregnancy living in the hospital where she and the baby could be monitored and receive round-the-clock care.

Matthew Emmanuel De La Torre was born February 20, 2024 at 5 lbs., 7.5 oz and 18” long.

At first, Matthew’s condition was much better than expected. He was born a full pound heavier than he was expected to be. His heart was pumping blood through his entire body on its own. Each day his lungs were growing stronger. However, after a few weeks in the NICU, his condition took a serious turn.

Physicians attempted to tighten the bandaging around his organs to try to manipulate them back in toward the body cavity. It was discovered that his stomach moved up toward his diaphragm. A portion of the tummy moved into a hernia in the diaphragm, putting additional pressure on his lungs. He was placed on maximum care. He is on every support vehicle they have available.

The most recent update from Rachel – 3/6/24: After many conversations getting my consent about the last stitch effort to put him on an ECMO machine [a machine that draws blood out of the body to oxygenate, then delivers blood back into the body. A risky procedure], he started crashing and everyone on the floor and more came into his room.

I just stayed nearby and prayed, holding onto what I’ve heard the Lord say, even though I thought that it might happen right then and there.

Somehow they stabilized him, then they moved him to the critical care unit… So if they did need to place him on ECMO then it would be readily available to them. Talking with the doctor down there, she gave me a lot more confidence that they would be able to keep him stable and figure out how each of his defects are competing.

Matthew is currently stable. He is on an oscillator ventilator so his body can rest.

Rachel has had a difficult recovery from the surgery. She has been suffering from painful intestinal issues, as well as lingering swelling in her legs and feet. She is experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort making it difficult for her to sleep and recover.

Big sister, Lenae (5), is having a difficult time processing the situation. She is wiggly and silly as ever, which can at times be difficult to manage in the hospital environment.

The De La Torres have only recently moved to Nebraska. They have a minimal support system. Their home is in Lincoln while Matthew is in the Children’s Hospital in Omaha (over an hour drive away). Luckily, they were able to purchase a car for Rachel to travel back and forth. They are hoping to use this GoFundMe to help with meals, gas for the long trek back and forth, and for medical bills. They so appreciate every prayer and every ounce of love and support they have received.