Baby Friese

During a routine fetal heart block check on September 1, 2022, the doctor discovered our baby has spina bifida. We traveled to the Midwest Fetal Clinic in Minneapolis, MN, for further evaluation. It was determined that we were candidates for inutero repair. This repair will give our baby the best chance at a normal life. The baby is still able to move its legs. We are working to preserve this leg function before further damage is done to the spinal cord. To be able to do this, Alex is being relocated to Minneapolis to be closer to the medical care team. Due to the circumstances, she is not allowed to work for the remainder of the pregnancy. Also, since she will be gone for an extended period, she has had to resign from the full-time job that she has held for over three years. This will essentially cut our household income in half. Chris will also be taking time off from work to be with Alex for the surgery and when the baby is born. In addition to losing income, we will see an increase in expenses. Chris will return to the Fargo-Moorhead area during the week to be with Gabriel and to work. Gabriel will remain in school. On the weekends (weather permitting), Chris and Gabriel will travel to Minneapolis to be with Alex. We have a long road ahead of us. This is unchartered territory for our family. Many have asked what we need. Positive thoughts and prayers are always welcome. Gift cards for food, gas and hotels are another option that would be greatly appreciated. Funds to assist with lost income and an increase in expenses would also be greatly appreciated and a huge help to our family. We greatly appreciate your support during this difficult time.