Michael and Michelle Bower were overjoyed to learn they were expecting their first child, anticipating the arrival of their baby girl with excitement and love. However, their journey took an unexpected turn when a 20-week ultrasound revealed that their daughter, Lacey, had spina bifida, a complex neural tube defect with potentially severe consequences.
Michelle vividly recalls the rollercoaster of emotions they experienced. “We had just learned the day before that we were expecting a girl. We desired a female. In less than 24 hours, we went from the pinnacle of highs to the lowest of lows.”
The medical prognosis was grim, as doctors informed the devastated parents that Lacey might never walk, speak, eat, or even breathe without assistance. The suggestion to terminate the pregnancy was made, but the couple was determined to give their daughter a fighting chance. Michelle underwent a risky three-hour surgery while Lacey was still in the womb to close the opening in her spine.
The surgeries for both Michelle and Lacey took place on April 27, 2020. Over thirty-five medical specialists were present during the delicate procedure, and Michelle was placed on strict bed rest for the remainder of her pregnancy.
On July 20, Lacey entered the world via cesarean section and was immediately taken to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). There, she spent the next 18 days learning to feed and making remarkable progress, wiggling her toes and ankles. Although she was partially paralyzed below the pelvis, Lacey began defying the odds from day one.
To the astonishment of everyone around her, Lacey continued to reach developmental milestones at a remarkable pace. By the age of 19 months, she was already speaking at the level of a typical 3-year-old. Despite her partial paralysis, she learned how to roll over, squat, and pull herself up to a standing position. With the aid of a walker, she took her first steps at nearly three years of age!
Michelle couldn’t hide her pride as she shared, “She exceeds the doctor’s wildest expectations. She is attempting to stand and is now supported while standing on her own. She can mount the sofa and ride her swaying horse with abandon.”
Michael chimed in, “Every day you get to witness a miracle.”
Lacey’s infectious smile and boundless spirit are a testament to her remarkable resilience. She’s intelligent, curious, and, most importantly, determined. Her parents firmly believe that her unwavering determination has allowed her to conquer the obstacles and walk independently.
Michael marveled, “It’s truly incredible, considering that a year ago she was unable to stand. You know, Lacey is doing something we never expected to see her do. And now, a year later, she can walk in her walker while completely sustaining her own weight, which is just remarkable, and I believe we will reach a point where she will no longer require a walker. She is motivated.”
Lacey’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of determination and the resilience of the human spirit. Her “never say never” attitude is a beacon of hope, and her parents are eager to see the extraordinary heights she’ll reach in life.
