My name is Brittany, and I’m currently navigating a high-risk pregnancy with our baby, Zephyrus. Earlier this year, I was diagnosed as high risk for preeclampsia, and my blood sugar levels were concerning. After initially being told I had gestational diabetes, further monitoring revealed I actually have hypoglycemia. My doctors advised me to stop working and focus on a healthy pregnancy, but the reality of living on one income made that difficult. I returned to work in June, but recent complications have forced me to go on maternity leave again. My OB discovered that my placenta is aging faster than expected, and I’m now being closely monitored as I approach delivery. As of today, I’m 3CM dilated and 70% effaced, but we can’t induce labor until next week when I reach 38 weeks. My OB has made it clear that returning to work isn’t an option right now, so we can prioritize the health of both myself and Zephyrus.

My husband Jeff has been working extra shifts and doing everything he can to keep us afloat, but with only one income, we’re struggling to cover our basic living expenses like rent and our truck payment. I don’t have any paid maternity leave at my new job, so I plan to stay home with Zephyrus for the first six weeks, while Jeff will be able to stay home for the first two weeks with pay. Our hope is to welcome Zephyrus into the world without the added stress of financial worries, so we can focus on our health and adjusting to life as new parents. Any support will help us get through this challenging time and give Zephyrus the best possible start.