Katie and Jeremy were overjoyed to be expecting their first child. After a long and difficult labor, (and 8 days over-due, no less!) Lucas entered this world on January 7, 2011 at 1:55 p.m. He was a beautiful baby boy that appeared healthy and full of life. What we didn't know was that he was born with a rare congenital heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. The lower left part of his heart (that pumps oxygenated blood to his body) was undeveloped. This condition is often undiagnosed because babies appear healthy within the womb as their circulatory system is supported by the mother's placenta. After birth, there is a bypass vessel in all babies that allows the right side of the heart to send blood to the body and essentially makes up for the dysfunctional left side. Unfortunately, this lifeline bypass vessel closes within 24-48 hours, and by the time babies with HLHS start to show symptoms, it is too late. This is what happened to sweet baby Lucas. He left us suddenly on January 8, 2011 at 9:02 p.m., only 31 hours after he filled our lives with joy and love.
There are no words to describe the pain of losing a child. But to add to their pain and grief, Katie and Jeremy will also be facing steep medical bills and funeral expenses. If you can find it in your heart to help them, any amount would be greatly appreciated.
