JorDawn Ramirez
Avery’s Angels District Manager
Midwest District Manager – Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Wisconsin
My journey began in 2017 when my 3rd daughter was diagnosed with Gastroschisis during a gender reveal sonogram. I had no idea that my life would be forever changed that day. I went through the rest of my pregnancy feeling alone, terrified, and nervous for the unknown future. Numerous appointments, tests, and biweekly sonograms followed after the diagnosis of Gastroschisis. Due to complications, my gastro warrior, Jevyllíaña, was born prematurely at 35 weeks on 01/05/18. She had her Gastroschisis repair (closure) surgery on 01/08/18 and spent 20 days in the NICU.
Unfortunately, I did not become aware of Avery’s Angels Gastroschisis Foundation until late December of 2017 and I wish I would’ve known months earlier. The support I have received and friendships I have made with other Gastro families has positively impacted my life. So far, we are fortunate to have had only a few complications from Jevyllíaña’s Gastroschisis diagnosis; however, if something comes up in the future, I am grateful to have others around me who have went through similar (and very different) experiences. I am eager to spread awareness, support families, raise funds for research, and coordinate outreach projects for Avery’s Angels Gastroschisis Foundation. I love to be a part of this organization and my hope is for no one else to have to experience this on their own!