Olivia is a fighter! After a complicated pregnancy and weekly appointments with more questions than answers, Olivia was born at just 33 weeks via c section. With a diagnosis of VACTERL, Olivia spent 60+ days in the Children’s Hospital NICU.

VACTERL is a diagnosis of conditions that present together - each with their own care plan. Olivia has an amazing team at Children’s and Scottish Rite - from cardiologist, to urologist, ENTs, orthopedic surgeons, and physical, speech and occupational therapists.

This means multiple weekly appointments across each of the different specialties required in her case. As well as the support of a G tube and vaginostomy which Shannon and Brennen have learned to manage at home.

Knowing they aren’t alone in a challenging medical cost and unpaid parental leave society, they are humbled by this experience and appreciate all of the support they’ve received.