Ashley Ambus

I joined the movement to create positive change for moms and babies everywhere, especially those most at risk. 
 

On Christmas Eve, my world changed forever. At just 26 weeks and 6 days pregnant, I had to undergo an emergency C-section to save my baby boy. He entered the world weighing only 1 pound 13 ounces — so tiny, fragile, and fighting from his very first breath.

Nothing could have prepared me for the fear of seeing my baby connected to machines in the NICU instead of bringing him home in my arms. Every day became a battle filled with uncertainty, prayers, and hope. Despite being born so early, he showed incredible strength.

As time went on, we learned he had chronic lung disease and a VSD, a hole in his heart. Hearing those diagnoses was heartbreaking, but my son continued proving just how strong he truly was. Eventually, his condition led to open-heart surgery — something no parent ever imagines their tiny premature baby having to endure.

Watching him go through so much pain and so many obstacles was one of the hardest experiences of my life. But through every setback, every monitor alarm, every sleepless night, and every tear, he kept fighting. He became my definition of courage.

My son’s journey began far too soon, but his story is one of resilience, strength, and miracles. From a 1-pound-13-ounce Christmas Eve baby to a warrior overcoming challenges bigger than most people could imagine, he continues to inspire me every single day.

Please visit my fundraising page to make a donation. Together we’ll be part of a movement to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.