The Noding Family

Our little family of four has been impatiently anticipating the arrival of our newest member, whom our 2 year old daughter and 4 year old son have dubbed "Peanut". We found out at 20 weeks GA that Peanut has spina bifida, a genetic condition that causes a deformity in the spine and comes with an array of potential other issues. We also learned that there is a prental surgery that could stop any further damage to Peanut's nerves and spinal cord, and could potentially decrease the necessity of some future surgeries, along with increasing the chance for greater mobility in her extremities.

This surgery is truly a miracle! It also comes with extended bedrest near the hospital for Mom (3 hours from home), healing from the prenatal surgery and taking care not to go into preterm labor. This also means that Mom cannot work, and will be taking a dramatic pay cut in her teaching salary. Mom will be renting a place for the duration of bedrest, along with the 2 year old daughter. Big brother will join them during non-preschool days. Because of bedrest, Mom will not be able to care for the children. Family and friends have been exhausted for helping out with caring for Mom and the kids during this time, so Mom will need to hire a nanny during the time of bedrest, lasting up to 6 weeks or more depending on recovery and Peanut's stability. We hope to follow doctors orders as closely as possible in order to keep Peanut in and healthy for as long as possible, so she can come join us in this big, beautiful world!!