Support for The Thurston Family

At their 20 week ultrasound, our daughter and her husband, Tyler, were told that their son has Myelomeningocele, the most severe form of Spina Bifida.  This is a birth defect where the baby's spine and spinal cord do not form or close normally during gestation. The area of Baby Thurston’s spine involved is L1 to S2, which controls the function of the lower extremities, bladder, and bowels.  

They have been sent to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for evaluation and hope to be approved for the fetal surgery to close the hole before birth. This surgery greatly improves Baby Thurston’s chances of having more normal function and allows the baby to heal while still in the womb.

After surgery, Mia will be required to stay in Philadelphia on strict bed rest for at least four weeks and possibly for the remainder of her pregnancy. Her due date is August 29th.

Tyler will have to be at home working and will travel to Philadelphia on weekends to be with his wife.

While not the type of people who look for help from others, the monetary expense of this hospital stay and relocation is going to be overwhelming for the young newlyweds. Any amount you are able to contribute would be appreciated beyond words.  Please help us help them so they can focus on the health and well-being of their first child. Continued prayers are appreciated as well.

Thank you,

The Sacco and Thurston Families