Baby Lana’s Story

When I found out I was pregnant, I was filled with every emotion in the book: shocked, excited and nervous. Throughout my pregnancy, I struggled with many complications. I was put on bed rest and lost my job. Being dependent on others for everything took a toll on my dignity. Baby Lana was born on August 18th after 33 hours of labor. I was exhausted and couldn’t keep my eyes open. I tried to comfort her as much as I could, but because she was sick, it was a long night!

The first two months of her life were spent in doctors’ offices trying to figure out why she couldn’t keep food down. I was sleep deprived and so scared for my baby. She was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF1). That means she has a tumor behind her right eye. We were in and out of the hospital and my caseworker could tell I was nearing the end of my rope, so she told me about The Doula Foundation’s Postpartum Support Program.

It was almost Christmas, and I was alone. I contacted The Doula Foundation 3 days before Christmas and they sent a doula over to help me immediately. She was a miracle and was more than I could ever ask for! I wouldn’t have made it through the holidays without her. My doula helped me with everything from basic parenting tasks, to gathering resources for me, and even showed me how to give Lana a bath and introduce foods.

When Lana was 5 months old, we found out the tumor had grown. Lana’s first year of life has been filled with doctors’ visits, seizures, shots, chemo, antibiotics, MRI’s, and physical therapy. We have a long road ahead and I am so thankful for The Doula Foundation for being with me and offering support. It would be impossible to be a single mom with a sick baby if it wasn’t for the support of The Doula Foundation.  -Tonya, DF Client

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