Baby Luca's Bladder Exstrophy Fund

Hi everyone. I hope you are reading this in good health.

My name is Sheena and along with my husband, Nathan, we are reaching out to you for help. Our precious baby Luca has been diagnosed with Bladder Exstrophy with severe Epispadias. For those unfamiliar with this condition, let me explain in the simplest way possible.

Bladder Exstrophy is a very rare birth defect where a baby is born with an incomplete closure of the abdominal wall and the bladder, leaving the bladder exposed outside of the body. He was also diagnosed with severe Epispadias. These two conditions require complex surgeries and lifelong medical care to ensure Luca can lead a healthy and happy life.

As of Nov 20, 2023, I am 30 weeks pregnant and in the process of interviewing different surgeons and pediatric urologists from 7 Bladder Exstrophy Centers of Excellence. Sadly, there is not one in Texas so we would be required to travel in the foreseeable future. BE patients typically travel occasionally for surgeries forcing parents to look for housing for a month or two in another state while the baby recovers.

This journey will not be easy for us, especially for my baby. He will undergo multiple surgeries throughout his life. He will require constant medical attention, specialized equipment and therapies. Writing this already already makes me emotional. On top of that, the financial challenges will be overwhelming as well. From medical bills, multiple surgeries and specialized treatments to transportation, travel and housing expenses, these costs will continue to pile up.

For our baby shower, we decided to create this fund so that friends, family and compassionate strangers can support us. Instead of getting us gifts from our registry, we will use the cash to buy specialized things for Luca, depending on what the doctor suggests. Lots of catheters and pull ups! We have set up this GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for Luca's medical expenses and future ongoing care. This fund will also cover his crib, clothing, car seat and everything else you would typically put in a baby registry. Your generous donations will go directly towards covering all these costs.

Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant impact on Luca's life. Your support will not only help him cope but also bring immense immense relief to our family, allowing us to focus on what truly matters - giving Luca the chance to live a happy, healthy life.

*** For friends and family wanting to buy gift cards - Target and Amazon Gift Cards will certainly be useful as well. ***

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Nate and Sheena