Support for Leslie and Derek's NICU Journey

To friends and family,

We are trying to raise funds to help Leslie and Derek Meeks with unexpected expenses during their new baby's stay in the NICU.

Derek and Leslie got a big surprise on the evening of Thursday, May 30, when Leslie's water broke at 32 weeks. Leslie was admitted to the hospital in hopes that they could delay delivery for a couple of more weeks to shorten NICU time.

On Saturday morning, they got another surprise when the baby decided to be a stinker and started having some heart rate troubles. So the plan then changed from waiting two weeks to having a June 1st baby. Mom, Dad, and Baby are all doing well, but there will be a NICU stay of at least 4 to 5 weeks.

Due to the early delivery, both Mom and Dad have limited paid time off from work. Dad will be returning to work to save some time off for the babies discharge. Once Mom is discharged, she will be spending as much time with Baby as she can. Because of the early delivery she doesn't have enough paid time off to cover her maternity leave either. This unexpected situation will lead to extra expenses-medical, travel, eating away from home and possible hotel stays. In addition, there is potential for a loss of income for up to 4 to 6 weeks.

We are trying to raise money to help with these extra unexpected costs.

We thank you in advance for any donation you are able to make. We also ask for continued healing prayers for all and that the NICU stay will be shorter than expected.