On September 1, at 25 weeks and 5 days, Lauren, Josh, and Birdie welcomed their sweet girl, Faye Ryan, far earlier than expected. Faye is extremely premature and in critical condition in the NICU at the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, facing serious complications that require continuous care. To be with Faye, their family has temporarily moved to Iowa City, two hours from home, family, friends, and church community.

In late August, at 24 weeks and 6 days pregnant, Lauren was hospitalized with severe preeclampsia. During that admission, doctors identified severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and Absent End-Diastolic Flow (AEDF), which meant Faye was not receiving adequate blood and oxygen. Six days later, Faye arrived by emergency C-section at 1 lb .02 oz and 11 inches long.

Early scans showed two intraventricular hemorrhages (IVH), one a level 2 and one level 4, with midline shift and impaired cerebrospinal fluid drainage. On that same day Lauren was readmitted with worsening blood pressure and began her third magnesium protocol.

Meanwhile, Faye was transferred to the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital on September 6th, where she continues to receive the specialized care she needs.

Lauren is recovering from major surgery and two hospital stays for preeclampsia and delivery. This unexpected journey has brought not only emotional stress, but also significant financial strain, from medical costs, the loss of Lauren’s income, and temporary living expenses.

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You can help by donating any amount, sharing this page with friends, church, and community groups. Any gift and wide sharing make a real and lasting difference. Thank you for praying with us for Faye’s healing and for Lauren’s recovery, and for surrounding their family with love and practical care.