At just 13 weeks Cheryl had what's called PPROM (Preterm Premature Rupture of Membrane). There was a ruptured membrane and she was losing the fluid her baby needed to develop and grow to be become a full term healthy baby. She was fortunately able to carry the baby to what is referred to as "a viable pregnancy". On July 27, 2015 she was admitted into the hospital for bed rest. The hopeful plan was that Cheryl would spend a total of 10 weeks in the hospital so the baby could develop through 34 weeks. That was the hope, but that did not happen. She had spent just 7 days in the hospital. The baby was born at 25 weeks 3 days on August 3, 2015. Surprise!!! Although we would have loved for baby Bodhi to "cook" a little longer, we praise God that he is continually growing and improving!
Bodhi Michael Markus is a miracle. He is considered a micro premie but no matter his size he is strong and is a FIGHTER!!! But he will face a long journey ahead of him in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit). Bodhi needs to remain in the hospital until he is at least technically full term, November for sure, if not longer. He will most likely come home on oxygen due to the fact that his lungs have not developed the way a full term baby's have. There are a lot of unknowns which can be disconcerting and scary.
Many have asked how they can help and the fact is that many have reached out and helped in various ways which I know Cheryl and her family appreciate more than they can express. But truth be told the help they could truly use is financial. To help with bills, gas expenses, daycare costs, and much more. There has already been so many back and forth trips to Marshfield, with so many more to come as Cheryl will be going to Marshfield every week even after she returns to work to spend with Bodhi until she can bring him home. Cheryl had to cut back at work as soon as her membranes ruptured and wasn't given much notice that she had to go on bed rest. This young, hard working family is in need of your help. No amount is too little to give. They will forever be indebted to you for your help. God bless baby Bodhi!
Bodhi Michael Markus is a miracle. He is considered a micro premie but no matter his size he is strong and is a FIGHTER!!! But he will face a long journey ahead of him in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit). Bodhi needs to remain in the hospital until he is at least technically full term, November for sure, if not longer. He will most likely come home on oxygen due to the fact that his lungs have not developed the way a full term baby's have. There are a lot of unknowns which can be disconcerting and scary.
Many have asked how they can help and the fact is that many have reached out and helped in various ways which I know Cheryl and her family appreciate more than they can express. But truth be told the help they could truly use is financial. To help with bills, gas expenses, daycare costs, and much more. There has already been so many back and forth trips to Marshfield, with so many more to come as Cheryl will be going to Marshfield every week even after she returns to work to spend with Bodhi until she can bring him home. Cheryl had to cut back at work as soon as her membranes ruptured and wasn't given much notice that she had to go on bed rest. This young, hard working family is in need of your help. No amount is too little to give. They will forever be indebted to you for your help. God bless baby Bodhi!
Organizer and beneficiary
Cheryl Markus
Beneficiary