In the early hours of January 3, 2016, Katy DeWitt found herself grappling with a variety of emotions. Just 18 weeks into her pregnancy with twin boys, she was navigating a path filled with uncertainty.
During the Christmas holiday, Katy and her husband joyfully announced their pregnancy to family and friends. However, beneath the excitement, Katy had been experiencing nagging back pain and a lingering sense that something wasn’t quite right. Concerned for her health, she went to Sisters Hospital, where doctors delivered shocking news: her pregnancy was triggering the growth of estrogen-dependent tumors in her liver, causing internal bleeding. The very pregnancy that was nurturing her twin boys was simultaneously threatening her life.
The situation was grave. Doctors told Katy that she had only a three percent chance of survival for both herself and her babies if she continued the pregnancy. It was a devastating diagnosis, but Katy’s strength and hope began to shine through.
Katy was quickly transported by ambulance from Sisters Hospital to Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), where she was then airlifted by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, the only facility equipped to handle both her complex pregnancy and liver condition. “The quick coordination between the hospitals and Mercy Flight enabled us to receive the best care for all involved,” Katy recalled.
At Strong Memorial Hospital, Katy underwent experimental procedures to embolize the tumors in her liver, hoping to stop their growth and save her life and the lives of her twin boys. During this time, Katy faced numerous procedures and several blood transfusions as the medical team fought to stabilize her condition. She spent 45 days in the hospital, including four days in the ICU, uncertain of what would happen next.
At 24 weeks, Katy was sent home, with doctors advising her to “watch and wait” for the arrival of the twins. Finally, at 36 weeks, Katy went into labor and delivered her twin boys, Luke and Theo—defying the odds that had loomed over her entire pregnancy. Although their journey wasn’t over, with Theo requiring corrective cranial surgery due to complications from the enlarged liver, Katy’s resilience and hope had seen her through.
Eight years later, Katy and her twin boys are thriving. She continues to undergo annual check-ups, and doctors are hopeful that this will be the last year she needs to be monitored and that she will soon be released from treatment.
Reflecting on her experience, Katy said, “Our entire family is forever grateful for what Mercy Flight offered to us on one of our darkest days. They truly embrace the essence of the Buffalo community and provide a selfless service to all in need.”
Support Mercy Flight’s Life-Saving Mission
Katy’s story is just one example of the powerful impact Mercy Flight has on our community. Thanks to the immediate and life-saving care provided by Mercy Flight, Katy and her twin boys are thriving today. But there are many others who rely on Mercy Flight in their most critical moments.
As we continue our mission of providing life-saving care when minutes matter, we ask for your support. Your donation helps ensure that Mercy Flight can continue to answer the call when every second counts. Together, we can make a difference and help save lives.
