Shortly before moving to South Carolina last month, our unborn son was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot with Pulmonary Atresia. In order to survive, he will require two open-heart surgeries shortly after birth, a number of weeks in the ICU, and then additional procedures throughout his life. Additionally, he is at risk for a chromosomal abnormality known as DiGeorge syndrome.
The situation is complicated by the fact that my wife experiences preterm labor with every pregnancy, including this one. If a baby is born early enough, she will need intensive care in a neonatal ICU in order to thrive.
Our son’s due date is September 17th, but last month my wife started having strong, regular contractions every 3 minutes. She was admitted to the local hospital and then quickly sent by ambulance to The Medical University of South Carolina, two hours away. We spent the weekend in the hospital, and thankfully they were able to stop the contractions.
We’re over the initial shock now and feel very hopeful about his outlook. And see that wavy spot on his head? That’s hair.
