Angel Pledged to God

Eliza Pia Angelica, our second-born child, was born last August 25, 2018, 11:06 a.m., at 37 weeks & 5 days via normal spontaneous delivery.

She was born with Trisomy 18, or Edwards Syndrome.

As early as 20 weeks, doctors could already see multiple congenital anomalies through ultrasound scans: Problems with her heart, her diaphragm, her kidney (one did not develop), her brain (her cerebellum is underdeveloped) and her lungs. Doctors were not expecting her to survive, as Trisomy 18 is said to be “not compatible with life.”

As early as 20 weeks, we knew. We had 17 more weeks to prepare ourselves. But no matter how many prayers we said, or how much research we did, nothing could really prepare us for losing a child.

Eliza died in my arms at 11:15 p.m., September 2, 2018.

As much as we grieve right now because she was taken away too soon, we are also grateful for the precious time that we spent with her. Only around 50% of Trisomy 18 babies survive past the first week. God lent us an angel from heaven for 8.5 days, and she will forever be in our hearts.

Thank you to all who unwaveringly prayed for her, even when my own faith faltered during these trying times.

Eliza Pia Angelica — our angel pledged to God. Breathe freely now, my love.