Riley's Medical Costs
Donation protected
Friends and Family, my best friend is currently undergoing something no mother should have to face. Her unborn child was diagnosed with a rare disorder that means her baby may not survive long after birth. It pains me that I can’t be there for her, and I want to help all that I can. If you can, it would mean the world to Melissa and I if you could help ease her struggles and worries during this stressful time. Thank you! <3
A few months ago, my best friend Melissa received a devastating diagnosis for her second pregnancy. Her little girl, Riley Lynn has a severe and rare genetic disorder called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, whereby the left ventricle and aortic valve remain undeveloped, causing significant stress on the rest of her healthy heart.
The child will have to undergo open-heart surgery just days after being born. At least two more surgeries will be necessary before her 3rd birthday…she may even end up needing a heart transplant. None of these procedures will make her heart function normally, but they will allow her to have an improved quality of life and a chance for a lively childhood.
For now, because of the severity of the situation, she and her husband have to frequently travel to Boston, MA from their Connecticut home for doctor appointments and testing. Riley will be born in Boston in early July, requiring special family housing for 4-6 weeks near the hospital at $280/week, equaling their existing mortgage payment.
That is just the beginning of their financial worries. It’s unclear how much the surgeries, NICU stay, and other fees will add up to, but it will easily be in the several thousands, but likely more. Melissa is the strongest person I know, and has somehow managed to remain positive throughout this nightmare, because the reality is ultimately her daughter may not survive, as there is significant mortality associated with HLHS.
Above all else, Riley is being born to the perfect couple; Melissa and Jeff will undoubtedly do everything in their power to ensure their daughter is loved and well taken care of no matter what happens. I love them both so much and wish I could be there in more than just spirit. If you can help, please do. Any amount, small or large, would help during this worrisome time. Thank you so, so much.
A few months ago, my best friend Melissa received a devastating diagnosis for her second pregnancy. Her little girl, Riley Lynn has a severe and rare genetic disorder called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, whereby the left ventricle and aortic valve remain undeveloped, causing significant stress on the rest of her healthy heart.
The child will have to undergo open-heart surgery just days after being born. At least two more surgeries will be necessary before her 3rd birthday…she may even end up needing a heart transplant. None of these procedures will make her heart function normally, but they will allow her to have an improved quality of life and a chance for a lively childhood.
For now, because of the severity of the situation, she and her husband have to frequently travel to Boston, MA from their Connecticut home for doctor appointments and testing. Riley will be born in Boston in early July, requiring special family housing for 4-6 weeks near the hospital at $280/week, equaling their existing mortgage payment.
That is just the beginning of their financial worries. It’s unclear how much the surgeries, NICU stay, and other fees will add up to, but it will easily be in the several thousands, but likely more. Melissa is the strongest person I know, and has somehow managed to remain positive throughout this nightmare, because the reality is ultimately her daughter may not survive, as there is significant mortality associated with HLHS.
Above all else, Riley is being born to the perfect couple; Melissa and Jeff will undoubtedly do everything in their power to ensure their daughter is loved and well taken care of no matter what happens. I love them both so much and wish I could be there in more than just spirit. If you can help, please do. Any amount, small or large, would help during this worrisome time. Thank you so, so much.
Organizer and beneficiary
Johanna Elsensohn
Organizer
Raleigh, NC
Melissa Chisholm
Beneficiary
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