Daniel and Melissa have desired to start their own family for years and have gone through the heartbreak of failed infertility treatments. They also have dedicated their life as foster parents and work in education. So when Melissa found out she was pregnant again last year, they were overjoyed! They came to Clarity’s clinic for a pregnancy consultation and two ultrasounds, thrilled to see their growing baby. Daniel and Melissa also became active in our support programs as they prepared for parenthood.
During the review of some of Melissa’s prenatal labs, their OBGYN delivered heartbreaking news: their baby could have a critical diagnosis of Trisomy 18. The OBGYN explained the severe implications of this diagnosis and their options, including traveling out of state for an abortion.
Devastated and overwhelmed, Daniel and Melissa turned to Clarity for help. Because of my medical background, I was happy to meet with them and explain the diagnosis. I told them that they certainly did not have to terminate the pregnancy. They chose to continue the high-risk pregnancy with their son and doubled down with their Clarity program involvement.
Before long, baby Simon was born. He was tiny, fragile, and deeply loved. He did indeed have Trisomy 18 and a serious heart condition. After several months in the NICU, Simon came home with oxygen, a feeding tube, and a heart monitor.
Because of Simon’s fragile health, Melissa and Daniel now live carefully and limit outside contact, which often leaves them feeling isolated. That’s where Clarity stepped in once again!
Daniel has a male mentor through the Aim program at Clarity who regularly checks in. Other staff have also stepped in with home visits and a warm meal. Daniel and Melissa are still navigating life with a medically fragile child, but they’re not alone: Clarity is walking with them.
Daniel and Melissa love Simon dearly and want to make the most of every day with him. They’ve continually expressed their gratitude for the love, care, and practical help they’ve received.
Families like Melissa, Daniel, and Simon’s are living proof that your generosity doesn’t just make a difference…it changes everything. Because of you, more lives are being saved and more families just like this one are growing stronger every day. Thank you.