Jennifer’s Story

Christian Post: My Life with 4 lb., 14 oz. Miracle Baby with Trisomy 18 – Now 11

Article appeared in Christian Post | By: Jennifer Thenhaus | Photo Credit: Christian Post

Melody entered the world at a mere four pounds, fourteen ounces, and was soon diagnosed with full trisomy 18. For the first twenty-four hours after her birth, she did not move, cry, or open her eyes. She did, however, wake up the next evening when she heard music by a group of sisters, the Eden String Quartet. She had responded to this music in the womb and hearing it outside the womb was no different. Immediately, her toes began to wiggle, her eyes popped open, and her heart rate soared. At that moment, we beheld a glimmer of hope for our little gift.

Melody’s diagnosis included significant holes in her heart and severe apnea. These are the two most common health issues for children with Trisomy 18. She was deemed “incompatible with life” and sent home on hospice to die. The grim statistics given to us stated that 95% of babies with trisomy 18 do not survive the pregnancy. If they survive, only 50 percent make it to the first week. Of those only five to 10% live to see their first birthday. We were given no hope.

Melody endeared herself to the community around her. They were grateful for each day of her life. When she turned one, 300 people showed up to her birthday party. Melody continued to grow in strength. When she turned five, 250 people celebrated with her.