Hello friends and family! My name is Julia Lucas. I’m honored to call Judy and Will my best friends forever!

On February 10, just after midnight, Judy and Will rushed to the hospital after Judy’s water spontaneously broke. Doctors let Judy and Will know there was a 50/50 chance that Olivia would come that week. Then, on February 12, 2023, the sweetest baby was born—Olivia Louise Black. It was love at first sight for Judy and Will, but Olivia came far too early. Born at 25 weeks, 6 days, and 1lb 9oz, Olivia’s life did not begin how anyone imagined.

Olivia’s journey has not been easy. She has been intubated and extubated multiple times, she has gotten sick, and she was transferred to a hospital 3 hours away from her home—bringing mom and dad with her. Olivia has had huge successes, and big setbacks. Olivia’s biggest hurdles right now are Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Due to these challenges, Olivia will be staying at the hospital past her expected due date.

Olivia’s journey is not over yet, and her fight will not end after she is discharged and sent home.

The purposes of this GoFundMe will help provide for medical expenses. I also hope that the funds can be used for baby needs. Judy’s baby shower was postponed, and Judy and Will have not been able to be home to prepare the nursery and buy baby necessities.

So many of us love Judy, Will, and Olivia deeply. Some have asked how they can support and show this family love. I’m starting this GoFundMe so we have a place to shower them with love and words of encouragement. This has been a stressful time for our friends. I hope that the monies from this GoFundMe can ease a heavy burden.

We also ask for prayers for Olivia, Judy, and Will. Olivia has a lot of goals to meet with her lungs, eyes, feedings, and health. Judy and Will have also asked for prayers with peace, patience, and rest as they are stressed and there are many uncertainties.

Please consider a gift according to your heart and ability!