Sweet Riley Mckell

The family and friends of Josh and Jessica McKell are uniting to help raise funds to assist with medical care for Riley Elizabeth McKell.

I'm Josh's brother and would like to share a brief story from my perspective about the strength of two people and their desire to be great parents regardless of the challenges that are presented.

During the 17th week of pregnancy the parents, Josh and Jessica, received news that their sweet little angel was struggling and had many medical issues. She was diagnosed with Heterotaxy syndrome, which is a very rare birth defect that involves the heart and other organs. They were told the chances for survival were low and given the choice to terminate the pregnancy. With the understanding of Gods plan, they immediately ruled out that option and remained very strong and optimistic that they would see their little girl.

I would like to share a post from Jessica to all her friends and family dated 10/9/12 "For those who don't know, Joshua McKell and I are pleased to announce that a little girl is coming our way due January 30th! Although she has some serious medical issues, we are excited that she is a part of our family for eternity, no matter how long her stay on earth is! We are super grateful for the support from family, friends, and faith in God's plan for our little girl!

Riley Elizabeth McKell was born prematurely on11/17/2012, and weighed 3 pounds 2 ounces and 14 3/4 inches long. Josh, Jessica and family are grateful for her arrival

Her diagnosis of heterotaxy which includes a complete heart block and septum defect will require intensive medical care and confinement in the SLC Children's Medical center over the next few months. The medical bills will be significant with many gaps in insurance over this journey.