Arya's Spina Bifida Journey

Hi, my name is Shelby and I am raising funds on behalf of Connie and Jonathan Zerhusen. I'll let them tell the story of Arya's Spina Bifida Journey, as it comes straight from the heart. We thank you, in advance, for taking a moment to read their journey and if you are able, making a donation and leaving a few words of support/encouragement. Thank you!

Our journey began with the realization of a long-term goal—leave the retail industry behind and join an industry where I could work from the comfort of home. We relished the joys of working from home, enjoying each other's company, and reveling in the flexibility it afforded us.

It was during this time that we received news that filled our hearts with overwhelming joy: we were expecting another child. Our son, August, would soon become a big brother, even if he couldn't fully comprehend the significance just yet. Our excitement soared when we discovered that our little bundle of joy would be a precious baby girl—fulfilling a lifelong dream of mine.

Here is where our journey took an unexpected turn as I developed a condition known as Hyperemesis Gravidarum. In simple terms, it meant severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Countless doctor's visits became a regular part of our lives. I even ended up at the emergency room after enduring 36 hours without being able to keep anything down.

After six grueling hours at the hospital, I called my office, determined to make up for the lost time after receiving fluids. Unfortunately, my absences, occurring within the first few months of my new job, raised concerns, leading to the difficult decision by my employer to end my employment.

Suddenly, I found myself unemployed, pregnant, and facing the daunting task of finding a job while simultaneously caring for August and preparing for the arrival of our baby girl. Little did we know that this was just the beginning.

Our world was forever changed when we received the news that our daughter, Arya Joy—a name I've had picked out since middle school—had been diagnosed with Spina Bifida. Initially unfamiliar with the condition, my husband Jonathan and I embarked on a journey of discovery and learning. Spina Bifida, is a condition where the skin of the back does not fully form over the spinal column. This leads to the spinal cord being exposed. This can cause a number of issues, and could mean Arya won't walk. We won't know for a long time but we are working with a great team of specialists in Houston.

The decision was not an easy one, but after many heartfelt conversations and deep reflection, Jonathan and I chose to prioritize Arya's care by forgoing the search for a job outside the home. It was a challenging choice for me but the love and commitment we share as a family compelled us to make this decision.

Now, our journey finds us facing the realities of a reduced income and a plethora of new expenses associated with Arya's care. While our insurance provides coverage, it does not account for the costs of flights and hotel stays required for our visits to UT Health and Memorial Hermann Children's Hospital in Houston.

In the face of these difficulties, we remain steadfast in our belief that we will overcome the challenges that lie before us. Jonathan, the ever-planner, faces the weight of the unexpected with unwavering determination. I continually remind him that no one could have predicted or prepared for the path we find ourselves on. Our resolve strengthens as we face each day with love, strength, and hope.

In this time of need, we turn to our community for support. Your generous contribution to our GoFundMe campaign will help alleviate the financial burdens we face, ensuring that Arya receives the necessary care and resources to thrive. Your support will make a tangible difference by covering the expenses of our medical trips, providing relief for our reduced income, and ensuring that we can offer Arya the best!