After suffering from severe Preeclampsia not only once, but twice, Lauren is a survivor and proud Mom to two miracle babies. Six year old Charlotte and 1 year old Griffin were both born premature via emergency c-section and spent the first two months of their lives in the NICU at Sister’s Hospital.
Born at 31 weeks gestation, Charlotte has come a long way since her small stature at birth, measuring just 17.5 inches and weighing 3 lb. 4 oz. Prior to the 32 week point in pregnancy, most babies have both physical and developmental delays, some affecting them long after their discharge from the NICU. Charlotte is a living example of the miracle of modern medicine and what it can do for these tiny warriors. While she faced multiple complications early on including respiratory distress, jaundice, reflux, weight loss, and failure to thrive, her parents are happy to report that today she lives life as any typical 6-year-old girl does. She loves to dance, draw, paint, sing, run, jump and play. And while she may still be a bit small for her age, she is reminded daily of her “Superhero Strength” and how brave she has always been since her early arrival into the world on July 13, 2012.
With his Superhero sister anxiously awaiting to take on her new role, Griffin Michael Ryan entered the world on June 2, 2017 at 33 weeks gestation weighing 4 lb. 3 oz and also measuring 17.5 inches. Griffin continues on in his journey through prematurity, as he is still working hard to catch up with peers his age. He has faced multiple setbacks since birth including a longer than average stay for a “33 weeker” due to severe Reflux and an inability to regulate his heart rate while eating. He has been delayed in every milestone, just like big sister Charlotte, and is now receiving both Occupational and Physical Therapy to address developmental concerns. What he lacks in development though he makes up for in charm! A recent discovery of tethered cord syndrome resulted in a neurosurgery in July of 2018. Within 72 hours of surgery, Griffin was stealing the hearts of all his nurses amidst the pain of recovery. His contagious laugh and adorable smile appeared throughout his hospital stay and his Mom and Dad are thrilled with the progress this little man has made in the face of adversity. It has been a long 16 months for Griffin, and he has never once waivered in his spirit or his desire to thrive.
Both Lauren and Jim are beyond proud of their miracle children and so honored to be part of Fund the Mission for the March of Dimes. Both Charlotte and Griffin are beautiful examples of how long prematurity affects a child, and how important further research is for moms, dads and babies who find themselves wading through the very intimidating waters of pre-term birth.
Every year, 15 million babies are born prematurely worldwide, and 1 million will die before their first birthday. Your gift helps the March of Dimes fund research, education, advocacy and programs that help more moms have full-term pregnancies and healthy babies.
Fund the Mission is a great way to support the cause, It is 100% tax dedcutible abd can be pledged before, night of or after the event.
Photo: 2019 March of Dimes Ambassador Family, the Ryans.
