This courageous mama’s pregnancy story is unique, to say the least. Aundreaha was diagnosed with Hyperemesis Gravidarum (or HG) in the early weeks of her pregnancy, a condition that causes her to be violently ill and unable to nourish herself or her growing baby. The inexplicable hardships she has faced since then are unfathomable, let alone during a pandemic. Frequent hospitalizations, multiple feeding tubes, and being connected to an IV 24 hours a day are just the tip of the iceberg that she has experienced.
Toward the end of their shoot, both Aundreaha and I were in tears. I watched for that hour as she silently adjusted her IV line and as she slowly ran out of energy. She graciously endured and silently persevered, as she has, bravely, for months. I couldn’t help but tell her how amazed I am by her strength and resilience. Hearing her sweet husband sing her praises and watching him look at her with utter admiration, respect, and compassion was like witnessing the most beautiful and honest love there is.
I myself struggled with HG in my first pregnancy, though it was nowhere near as severe as Aundreaha’s case. I know there are many women out there who have or are currently dealing with this rare condition, or who are struggling with illness of another type during their pregnancies. Mama’s, if you’re reading this, I hope Aundreaha’s story will instill hope in your hearts and demonstrate that even the darkest experiences hold unimaginable beauty.
Aundreaha & Patrick, I am absolutely amazed by your partnership and your strength, and so excited for you to become parents! Your precious Chloe will be the luckiest little girl in the world to have parents like you!
