ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – An Albuquerque family, fought against all odds to ensure their baby’s survival after a rare diagnosis, that effects about 1,600 babies in the United States every year.
“We’re going to help our baby girl and, you know, get the best treatment that we can for her,” emphasized Brooklyn Roybal.
At 14 weeks pregnant, with her second child, Brookyln Roybal and her husband’s life was turned upside down…when doctors found signs of trouble during an ultrasound.
Her un-born baby’s heart was displaced, due to a rare birth defect, known as congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
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“It results from a hole in the diaphragm, which is the connection between the chest cavity and the abdomen. And as a result of that, all the content in the abdomen actually herniates up into the chest,” said Dr. Chris Derderian surgical, Critical Care at Children’s Hospital Colorado.
CDH, can compress the lungs, and potentially, lead to breathing problems, “I was terrified I was truly scared going into the unknown,” continued Roybal.
After being told what Baby Denver’s odds at survival were, Roybal and her family took action
to give her baby the best chance at life.
“The love you have for your children is indescribable. And, you know, you want to choose the best help you can for them,” emphasized Roybal.
The family went to Denver, seeking care at Colorado Fetal Care Center, “I didn’t feel that reassurance until I truly met them to understand, you know, how passionate they were and knowledgeable they were in this diagnosis to where it was just. I trusted them,” shared Roybal.
Baby Denver, was born on February 20th after 5 months in the NICU, she was able to come home, just in time for her dad’s birthday.
“She inspires me and Jake every day, like how much she has progressed and it was terrifying. It was scary. And like every day she wakes up and she’s a happy, healthy baby. So, you know, that’s just the most strongest little girl I’ve ever met,” said Roybal.
