Each month, one family with a medically complex baby or child will be selected to receive a portion of the profits from Legendairy Milk as part of the Legendairy Littles program.
The month of June we have selected to focus on Spina Bifida. According to the Spina Bifida Association, roughly 2,900 babies born in the US have a form of Spina Bifida each year. Simply put, Spina Bifida means “split spine.” It happens when the spinal column does not close all of the way when a baby is in the womb. Often, the treatment involves surgery within days of birth or while mom is still pregnant. Surgery is performed to help prevent infection, save the spinal cord from damage, and preserve mobility. Even with surgery before or within days of birth, there is still a potential for life long problems that can include numbness, lack of movement and sensation from the hips down, bladder incontinence and kidney problems, constipation, and the possibility of requiring a shunt due to hydrocephalus. Many children with Spina Bifida require leg braces, walkers, or wheelchairs in order to be mobile. Although each case is unique, children with Spina Bifida are able to manage any physical limitations and lead full lives.
At 17 weeks pregnant, it was discovered that Bellamy had Spina Bifida. Since it was detected before birth, Bellamy and her mom were able to undergo a 5-hour fetal surgery to repair the opening in her back at only 24 weeks gestation. Her dedicated mom then remained on strict bedrest until 35 weeks 2 days when Bellamy was born at a beautiful 5 pounds. Because of their fetoscopic surgery, Bellamy and Mom are now part of a medical study until she is 18 years old. This study requires them to travel for appointments every three months until one year, then every 6 months until Bellamy is five, and annually until she turns 18.
During the month of June, a portion of Legendairy Milk’s profits will be donated to Bellamy’s family to assist in the expenses associated with their participation in the Spina Bifida research study. If you would like to nominate your family for the Legendairy Littles program, please email us at littles@legendairymilk.com.