This pregnancy brings a new challenge for us. Sometime after my pregnancy with Rosie, I developed Anti-Kell antibodies in my blood. This can happen when someone (me) without the Kell antigen in their blood has blood exchanged with Kell positive blood. In pregnancy, if the baby has Kell (which is unfortunately is the case) the anti-Kell antibodies in my blood can transfer through the placenta and can cause hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). In essence, the antibodies attack the baby’s red blood cells which if untreated, leads to severe fetal anemia. 

While there is no cure, there are treatments which can hopefully reduce the likelihood of anemia. I have begun weekly IVIG infusions to hopefully avoid or postpone the development of fetal anemia. If the fetal anemia does present, I will likely receive intrauterine blood transfusions (giving the baby blood through a needle through my belly into the umbilical cord). We understand that there is are a wide range of possible outcomes here, but are very lucky to have detected this early and have the support of a fantastic care team. 

It will be a long and anxious journey going forward. I’m still hopeful and praying to God daily for a great outcome with these treatments. My experience as mom to Rosie reminds me each day why this is all worth it in the end. 

I am doing my very best to stay positive and excited - an incredibly challenging task if I’m being honest. I’m sharing this now to be totally transparent about my own experience and for my own support if anyone has had a similar experience.