Help Baby River Thrive

River was born on May 23rd, 2023 at just 24 weeks & 5 days old by emergency C-section. She weighed only a 1lb, 6.9 oz & was 12 inches long.

River’s due date was September 7th, but unfortunately, Shelby’s water broke at only 22 weeks and 4 days. At this time, we were faced & debriefed with many possible outcomes that were completely soul shattering. However, we knew if our special girl wanted to be here, she would be. And we desperately prayed she did!

I will never forget the moment of utter anxiety, relief and pure joy as the nurse came back into the room, telling myself & River’s father that not only was my sister okay, but so was this beautiful baby girl that she created. That she came out trying to cry, fighting, and they were working on getting her intubated & stable.

Today, our beautiful gravy girl is now weighing just under 5lbs! However, it has not been an easy journey for her and her family. Quite possibly the most terrifying season to ever walk through and still a continuous long road ahead.

Right before River’s birth, her family had just moved into a new home to accommodate their growing family. River’s father, Layne, already had a tight work schedule. Shelby was also working up until the point of her water breaking & then being hospitalized. River’s father is working less as he’s trying to spend as much time with her as possible. They sometimes have several trips to the hospital a day & are spending outrageous money in gas every week. Not to mention, back to school for River’s eldest brother this month & also the medical bills to come!

I ask that you would please support baby River and her family in this crucial season so that her parents can spend as much time as possible loving on their special nicu girl! We are so thankful for your support, love & continuous prayers.