Malachi Philip Preston...

We're having a boy! It is such exciting news! And we are thrilled! His name is Malachi Philip Preston. It was incredible finally knowing what to call him, but we were shaken with some unexpected news. When we left the doctor's office on Tuesday night, all we knew was that he only has two chambers in his heart. They couldn't say if he was going to live or die. We went to see a Pediatric Cardiologist on Friday named, Dr. Freeman. Thankfully he could offer us some much better news. This is a letter I wrote detailing Malachi's condition after seeing Dr. Freeman:

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust." Psalm 103:1, 14

Dear Friends and Family,

We, first of all, would like to thank each and every one of you for your prayers and encouragement these past few days. We appreciate it far more than you will ever know!

This morning we were unsure of what we were going to hear from the doctor. After a VERY LONG hour and a half ultrasound, the doctor finally told us what he was seeing. Malachi has a single functioning ventricle. He has both arteries coming off of the one ventricle: one going to the lungs, and one going to the body. Dr. Freeman stated that the Aorta is a very large artery, and looks good, the Pulmonary Artery is obstructed, causing it to narrow. He stated that while Malachi is in the womb, the artery would not be a threat if it were to close up. When he is first born he may need to have a tube placed between the Aorta and the Pulmonary Artery to help with sufficient blood flow. His first surgery, or second, depending on if he needs the tube put in, will happen when he is a few months old. They will be diverting the Jugular Vein straight to the lungs, relying on gravity to make it function. The final surgery (we pray) will be around 2 – 3 years of age. It will be to link the veins returning from the rest of the body to the lungs.

Dr. Freeman stated that Malachi could go on to live a fully healthy life. He said that once Malachi is born the surgeon will be able to fully asses his condition and determine the best route. He recommended that we deliver in Pittsburgh, so that Malachi could receive immediate care.

We are completely overwhelmed by the news! It does sadden us to think that our little baby boy will have surgery at such young ages, but we are so thankful that he will live! God has completely spared our son's life. Without HIS strength and love there is NO WAY we could have made it through this. And His same love and strength will be there through the long road ahead.

I was reminded by a very dear friend of mine that the Lord loves Malachi far beyond what we ever could, and He knew in Eternity past what would be best for him. We are still putting Malachi in His hands, and know that the Lord will work all things to His glory. Please continue to pray for Malachi, that he will not face any more complications. We look forward to the day when we can hold him in our arms, the miracle that the Lord has given us!

Please continue to pray for our little baby boy. We'll update with anything new. Thanks again! We love you all!

In His arms,
Philip, April, and Malachi