Quinn Leonard

On July 5th, Jason and ReNee went in for a routine ultrasound in Brainerd, where they found an excess amount of fluid, and thought there might be fluid around baby's heart.  So, they sent them down to the twin cities, where ReNee went into labor naturally.  The baby was still breech, because she was not due until August 7th.  They did an emergency c-section that evening.  Baby Quinn was immediately sent to the NICU at Children's.  She was retaining A LOT of fluid, and required a breathing tube and feeding tube.  


After a week of extensive tests, they found that Quinn has Mosaic Down Syndrome.  Children with Mosaic Down Syndrome have two distinct cell groupings. In some cells there is a total of 46 chromosomes, which is the “typical” group. In other cells there is an extra copy of the chromosome #21, making 47 cells total for this group.  Only 2-4% of children with Down syndrome have Mosaic Down Syndrome, so it is very rare.  The physical and developmental characteristics of Mosaic Downs can vary greatly.  If you want to read a bit more on it, visit:  Imdsa.org (International Mosaic Down Syndrome Assoc.)


Quinn is making positive progress.  Her fluid retention is decreasing, her breathing tube is out, and she's getting a little oxygen through a tube.  She also gets to cuddle with her mama frequently.  Quinn is working with an occupational therapist to build muscle for sucking/eating.  She had big smiles for her mama today!  She is already such a strong, determined, beautiful little girl!


Obviously it has been an extremely tough past couple of weeks for the Leonards, and they have tough days ahead, but amazing days to look forward to as well!  Please keep them in your thoughts and/or prayers. 
A lot of you have already asked me what you can do, and ReNee and Jason are so overwhelmingly appreciative of the support that is already pouring in.  For now, they are ok, but I will be sure to post anything that they might need.   I will update this site, as ReNee and Jason send me updates.  Thanks!
Heather