Dear Friends and Family,

Our family members are facing something we never imagined, and we’re asking for help during one of the most vulnerable moments in their lives.

While on Christmas vacation in Cancun, my sister-in-law, Vrunda, unexpectedly began experiencing symptoms of preterm labor at just 27 weeks pregnant. What was meant to be a joyful trip quickly turned into a medical emergency, requiring her to be transported by air ambulance back to the United States for urgent care.

During that flight, the unimaginable happened. Their baby girl, Siya Bhavin Patel, was born mid-air aboard the air ambulance at just 27 weeks’ gestation. Following her birth, the aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing in Houston, where she was immediately transferred to the NICU at UTMB Galveston and is now receiving specialized, life-saving care.

Because of this emergency, Vrunda and her husband Bhavin, are unexpectedly and indefinitely displaced in Houston. They must remain close to the hospital for the foreseeable future until their tiny fighter is strong and healthy enough to be discharged and safely cleared to travel home to Chicago.

With no warning and no time to prepare, expenses have added up quickly — including lodging near the hospital, transportation, meals, and basic daily necessities. They arrived with only what they had for vacation, and even essentials like clothing and personal items have become an added burden during this already overwhelming time.

Their older daughter, Myra (2) will be staying with us so they can focus fully on their newborn’s care, adding another emotional layer as their family navigates this difficult separation.

Right now, the most meaningful way to support them is financially. Every contribution, no matter the size, will go directly toward easing the unexpected financial strain so they can focus on what matters most: being present for Baby Siya and supporting her fight to grow stronger.

If you’re unable to donate, we ask that you please keep them in your thoughts and prayers and consider sharing this page to help spread the word.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, generosity, and support during this incredibly difficult time. It truly means more than words can express.

- Kush and Palak