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It goes without saying that parents would do anything for their kids. That’s why things like injuries, cancer, and terminal illnesses are absolutely terrifying for parents. The thought of not being around to take care for you children is absolutely heartbreaking.
Such was the tragic case for mother Carrie DeKlyen. After consistent severe headaches followed by nausea, her husband Nick knew something serious was going on. After taking her to the doctor, it turned out that he was right.
Carrie was diagnosed with terminal cancer in April, a diagnosis Nick called “his worst nightmare”. Nick and Carrie have 5 children, so the news couldn’t have been more devastating for the family. However, things went from bad to worse when Carrie was told that she couldn't receive treatment.
The reason? Carrie was pregnant, but she had no idea. In order to receive cancer treatment, she’d have to terminate her current pregnancy, even though she had just found out about it at that moment.
It truly was a life or death situation. Should she forgo the life of the child inside of her so she had a chance of getting well, or should she sacrifice herself for the life of her child?
Even though doctors told the mother she would die if she went through with the pregnancy, Carrie couldn’t bear the thought of terminating, so she decided to keep her baby. Though Carrie knows she’s making the best decision for her unborn child, her condition is getting worse by the minute.
"It was Carrie's decision and I said 'What do you want to do?' She said, 'We're keeping it,'" her husband said. "She's going to miss us, but she knows this life is so quick and we'll see each other again in Heaven. Knowing that gives her hope and, I know it's crazy, but I support her decision."
Now, Carrie is 21 weeks pregnant and is on life support. She is currently in a vegetative state and has little time left. Doctors are hoping that Carrie can hold on for at least 7 weeks so they have a chance at safely delivering her 6th child, which she has named Life. Unfortunately, Carrie had a stroke a few weeks back and has not yet recovered.
"I don't know if she hears me, but I tell her I love her every day,” her husband said. "I look at her face and know this is what she wants and it gives me comfort. But right now, it's a race against time."
Since Nick has quit his job to care for his wife full-time, the family has set up a Gofundme account to assist with the financial burdens that are sure to follow Carrie’s passing.
Despite everything this family has been through, Nick says he couldn’t be “more proud” of his wife for giving their daughter a chance.
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