Jeff and I were keeping a fun secret as we headed off to Omaha! We were so excited that we would be blessed with another little baby. We didn't tell family and friends for quite a while, focusing on one life-changing event at a time. When we finally announced that Sawyer was going to be a big brother, everyone was so excited!
When we went in to find out the gender of our little bean, we got some surprising news. First, our little one was a boy (I was convinced it was a girl), and secondly, more importantly and shocking, our baby has Gastroschisis. We were absolutely heartbroken. We still are, to tell the truth. This little boy will be born with some of his organs outside of his tiny little body. He will need to stay in the NICU for a couple months right after he is born. He will undergo surgery to place his liver, stomach, and bowels back into his body. We are still waiting to hear more about any possible genetic defects that could be associated with Gastroschisis, but so far, the tests have come back clear. He has a very healthy heartbeat and the organs, though not in place, are functioning beautifully. His brain is healthy and unaffected by his condition. We thank the Lord everyday that he is healthy despite his condition. This has been a really hard, trying time for us. As a mom, I know how deeply and fiercely I love Sawyer, and I imagine this new little boy will steal my heart just as effortlessly. This scares me beyond words. I remember when Sawyer was born, the nurse bathed him and it made him cry that sad, newborn squeal. I was irrationally weeping while he was harmlessly being bathed because it hurt me to watch him cry. This new baby will have so much more to endure. I have a feeling that he is a fighter already, though. I have faith that Heavenly Father will strengthen both Jeff and I as we fight through the first part of his life. Jeff has been absolutely incredible through all of this. He is sad and scared for our little boy, but he has been nothing but hopeful and strong. According to our specialist (and the slew of information we've gathered on the internet) our little guy has a great chance at a normal, healthy life after he recovers. We appreciate everyone's thoughts and prayers, and ask to continue to bless our family with your faith and support.
He is pretty cute in there, waving to the world. I have a feeling he may be just as sweet and handsome as his big brother!
