Brianna Johanson & Gerald Hoeger

Hi, my name is Jessica, I am Brianna’s sister. As many of you know Brianna and Gerald are expecting a baby boy, due in December. At their 20 week appointment they got a blood test result back that was positive for a neural tube defect. They went on to have an ultrasound done and found out that baby has a congenital anomaly called an omphalocele (stomach and liver is outside of the abdomen, contained in a thin sac). That ultrasound also showed that there may be some abnormalities with his heart. They were then referred to maternal fetal medicine in Fargo. Ultrasound there indicated that baby has a complex congenital cardiac defect (to include levorotation, heart is “flipped”, atrial and ventricular septal defect, mitral valve atresia, and interrupted aortic arch, to name a few). From there they were referred to Minneapolis for further ultrasounds, MRIs, and plan of care. After many appointments in Fargo and Minneapolis, Brianna, Gerald, and Kaleb will have to relocate to Minneapolis 3-4 weeks prior to delivery. They need to be close by if delivery is imminent and for close monitoring. The plan will be for a scheduled delivery at 39-40 weeks. Following delivery, oxygenation to baby’s body will be a priority. The first cardiac surgery is expected to be at 3-4 days of life if baby can tolerate it. With all that being said baby will need multiple different surgeries, shortly after birth as well as throughout his life. So I am here asking for two things. Please keep my sister and her family in your thoughts and prayers, the power of prayer can go a long way. Also, with all this needing to happen in Minneapolis, 6 hours away from their home, there will be a financial strain due to travel, housing, food, and countless medical bills. If you are able, please donate! Help my sister and her beautiful little family and unborn child. From the bottom of my heart I appreciate you all and thank you in advance. Anything helps ❤️