I woke up the morning of February 8, 2019 surprised to find that I was in labor just 3 days before her my date and scheduled c-section. But when I arrived to the hospital that fateful day, I was greeted with the most traumatic news of my life. Our baby had no heartbeat. Hours later Brendan and I were informed of even more dire news:  my life was also at risk. If I didn’t deliver this baby soon, I could also die. I was diagnosed with a rare and life-threatening pregnancy condition called Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy (AFLP), which was causing my body to go into major organ failure.  The first organ to fail was my placenta, costing Grace her life. My liver and kidneys were also failing, my blood was acidic and wouldn't clot, and my blood sugar levels were at a critical low of 26.  The only treatment was to deliver the baby and get me to the ICU for supportive measures. At 8pm that evening, Grace was born still. Thirty minutes later, I was rushed to the ICU. 

While recovering in the hospital days later, Brendan and I vowed to each other that this traumatic event would not become a dark cloud over our family. Instead, we would use it as an opportunity to become a beacon of hope and support for others. I searched the internets high and low to find opportunities for healing and to help others, which is what led me to the Star Legacy Foundation.  I was drawn to Star Legacy because they were the most comprehensive organization I had found, not only offering bereavement and grief support, but also making significant strides in the prevention of stillbirth.  Star Legacy provides support directly to families through support groups, peer companion programs, and educational materials and resources, and strives to create change through awareness, education, research and advocacy.  We would be grateful if you would join us in walking for Grace and all other babies gone to soon, or consider donating to the cause so that fewer families have to experience this tragedy like we did.

Thank you for your consideration and support. 

With love and Grace,

The Noonan Family