prayer request for an expectant mother...

I don't often do this sort of thing in any capacity, let alone a public plea... but this morning I got an email from my sister about a family friend - a former co-worker and his wife... and it made me cry - granted, I could say I cry at the drop of a hat, but if it's actually more like the tears roll if I think the hat's going to drop. However - read on if you want and are willing/able to send some positive thoughts towards those in need... and if not, then please, just leave this alone:

Laurie is 21 weeks pregnant, she is due October 15. During a routine ultrasound, they found out they were having a little girl, the doctors also noticed a spot on the baby's neck. A follow up at the Johns Hopkins fetal assessment revealed it to be a cervical teratoma. The baby has a rare congenital tumor. Laurie is headed back to JH soon for further testing to determine exactly where the tumor is located, which will be followed by a consultation with the pediatric surgeon and a tour of the NICU where their daughter will be taken following her surgery immediately after delivery. Laurie will have to have a C-Section - they are already assembling the team that will join her in delivery - neonatolists, pediatric ENT, pediatric surgeons, and more... During delivery they will have to stop half way to intubate the baby so she can breathe as it is expected the tumor will block her airways. There is a concern as well that the tumor may grow to the point where it prevents her from swallowing the amniotic fluid - which would lead to an overflow and trigger premature labor.

This is Laurie's prayer request:

"*That the tumor does not grow any bigger - if it does it can interfere with her heart and cause in-utero heart failure because too much blood will pump from the heart to the tumor.

*That she is able to swallow the amniotic fluid like all babies in the womb. If the tumor grows and she is unable
to swallow,it would lead to preterm labor, and she would not be strong enough to survive surgery.

*That we have a safe delivery with no complications to her and me.

*That the tumor is benign.

*That they are able to care for her as soon as possible by securing the airway, removing the tumor, so she can come home with us soon.

* For peace and to be able to rest and relax. This is a super emotional time and we are scared and it is so hard to stay calm. I pray God gives us strength."

If you're ever had a child or been through a pregnancy with someone you love I am sure you remember the natural anxiety coursing through your body. This family can truly benefit from any tender thought or bit of positive energy you can put out there. I can't begin to comprehend what they are going through.