Martha’s Story

Site created on September 11, 2022

Our 9.5 year old daughter, Martha, was born with a rare genetic syndrome causing birth defects, health problems, and developmental disability. While the first few years of her life were fraught with medical scares, in recent years she's thrived and achieved incredible milestones! Praise God! 


From the time she was two years old, orthopedic specialists monitored her every 3-6 months. The time has come to begin correcting scoliosis in her spine, which has reached a degree where to wait any longer would be devastating for her pulmonary function. Her first procedure, on October 31st, will be a magnetic growth rod surgery, with the intent to straighten her back significantly, then to adjust those rods as she grows. She is facing approximately 4 surgeries within the next 3-4years, and rod adjustments every 3 months during that time. 


To preserve Martha's dignity and maintain as normal of a family life for her and our other children, we have been private about her health. However, we know that Martha is deeply loved and cared for by her extensive family, friends, school community, classmates, and church family. During this stage of rapid growth for Martha, it will also be a time of diligence for her medical care. We don't know what the future holds or if other issues will emerge, but she is in good hands with her medical team. 


We created this Caring Bridge site to share on one platform appropriate updates. Neither of us are active on social media, and we know our children will need us present to them as we navigate our upcoming challenges instead of texting and calling in updates. We value your continued prayers. Martha is the most loving of children and we are forever grateful for those in her life with whom she shares that love. It is an honor to be her parents, and we are touched by the outpouring of love we've received from the community whom are impacted by her big smile and famous hugs. 





Newest Update

Martha’s birthday!

Journal entry by Mallory Severson —

Martha turned 11 today! She is doing well, and has had a great birthday. I brought cupcakes to her classroom today, and she received gifts from friends, school, and family. After school, Martha went to the Trolls 3 movie with 2 of her sisters and two of her brothers! She was especially excited because she woke up to snow, which she loves. 
Her health has been good, and her spine continues to be adjusted every few months. She’s growing, and already has a year down of her 3 year journey with the growth rods. Martha is excited for Christmas, and loving school and life! Onward we go….
Read More of the journal titled "Martha’s birthday!"
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