Two Little Early Birds

On October 31, 2018, my brother and his wife gave birth to twins at only 29 weeks gestation.  They were born weighing only 2 lbs 12 oz and 2 lbs 13 oz.  It has been a roller coaster ride since that time dealing with complications.  Brookelynn (Brooke) has been through apnea, heart pda, meningitis, lung issues and a serious grade 3 brain bleed.  She was life-flighted to Primary Children's hospital for surgery to input a reservoir to try to control the fluid on her brain and may need a shunt going forward.  They are watching her closely and draining fluid every other day.  She left behind her sister Kathleen (Kate) at a NICU in an Orem, UT hospital.  Kate has been through a lot of similar issues including a grade 1 brain bleed and has been struggling with her lungs, switching between vent/cpap often.

Their parents, Ryan and Jennilee, are now splitting their time driving between two hospitals in two different counties trying to spend time holding each and supplying milk.  Ryan and Jennilee have struggled with their own health issues. Jennilee fell on the ice yesterday injuring her ankle and is now on a knee scooter.  Ryan is having to take time off to deal with all of this. This will be a long road ahead.  Expenses for medical care, fuel, etc. are piling up quickly and though they originally declined our request to set this up, they have now reconsidered and would appreciate any and all help offered.  They are very grateful for the love and support they receive daily.