The Rud's

Our very good friends, Jen & Brett Rud and their young son, Zach have had a devastating summer. 

In mid-June, when Jen was 20 weeks pregnant with her second son, Weston, she had a preterm membrane rupture. She was immediately put on bed rest.  At 23 weeks she was admitted to St. Paul’s Children’s Hospital where she was on medical bedrest and had constant medical attention to monitor baby Weston.

On July 27th, at 26 weeks, Weston was born via emergency C-section.  He was born critically ill and instantly became the sickest 2 pound 9 ounce patient of the NICU.

Life in the NICU was described as a rollercoaster by Jen-the amazing ups and terrifying downs can be incredibly delightful or devastatingly heartbreaking. Weston, who wore the tiniest diaper, that quite literally fits in the palm of a hand, fought the hardest battle with his parents by his side at every moment.  At 9 days old, on August 5th, 2018 Jen had to hold her cherished miracle baby as he took his last breath. It is an  indescribable tragedy that no one should ever have to endure.

As you can imagine, the pain of losing their child and going through this trauma has been life changing.  In addition, there will be a tremendous financial impact to the family.  Baby Weston spent his entire 9 days in the NICU at St. Paul Children’s Hospital with an amazing healthcare team.  Jen was hospitalized for almost an entire month. She was unable to work during this time and Brett took time off from work to be with Jen, Zach and baby Weston.  The medical expenses incurred for both Jen and Weston will soon start to mount.

I created this fund on behalf of Weston, to honor his memory, and to help our dear friends during this difficult time. The outpouring of love and well wishes has been amazing. We are so blessed to live in this small community with so much support and love. Many of you have asked how you can help. Aside from prayers and other emotional support we are hoping to give financial support to the Rud Family to help alleviate the immense financial pressure ahead for them. A donation of any amount will be greatly appreciated to help our friends recover from this devastating tragedy.  All donations will go directly to the family to help with medical expenses.

 Thank you in advance for all your love and support.