Frequently Asked Questions

If you saw my recent Social Media announcement, you’re probably thinking “those Perrys are crazy!” And we probably agree with you. 

We are in the process of starting a new ministry at a new church, moving into/buying a house and we’re now adding a new baby to the mix—on top of Special Needs Parenting.

Yes. We feel a little crazy right now. 

But God never gives us more than we can handle, right?! (Actually, no that’s not true. I really hate that saying.) 

BUT I do believe in God’s perfect timing—and even though I don’t quite understand it, I know I eventually will. And I know it will eventually all make perfect sense to us.

So let me go ahead and answer the FAQ’s:

1. They will be about 21-22 months apart. The baby is due May 20, but because of my classical c-section with Nehem, I can’t go more than 37 weeks. So the birthday is still TBD.

2. No, we weren’t trying. Quite the opposite, actually. That’s all I’ll say about that.

3. And the most frequently asked question: Yes, there is a possibility of this baby having Spina Bifida. Because I have had one child with a Neural Tube Defect, the chances of me having another child with a similar defect is higher. I have not done extensive research on this, so I don’t know exact statistics. But I’m sure you can do your own Google search and find some good information. However, the exact cause of Nehem’s Spina Bifida (and many other people with SB) is not clear. Some say it’s a lack of Folic Acid, some say it could be genetic, some say it’s just a fluke. So, because the cause isn’t known, the statistic goes up for having a second child with SB—simply because they can’t give a cause. I hope that makes sense.

One somewhat researched cause of Spina Bifida is a genetic mutation of the MTHFR gene. This mutation can cause no symptoms, but can affect the way a woman’s body processes folic acid. Often woman with this mutation will take Folic Acid in other forms. Finding out if this mutation is present is as simple as a blood test. A blood test I planned to have before we decided to have another child. 

But here we are.

I wanted to wait to announce that I was pregnant until I had already had my anatomy scan and could announce the coming of a perfectly healthy baby. But I didn’t think that was fair. Even if this baby has SB, should he/she not be celebrated just as much as a “healthy” baby? 

In addition to celebrating this sweet little life, if I’m being completely honest and transparent, I am filled with anxiety of the unknown. It’s really hard knowing what the possibilities are, but having to wait for answers. My Doctor and I already have a game plan to start checking for SB around 16 weeks. We’re ready and we know the drill. 

But we are also praying really hard for a normal, boring pregnancy. 

So, we chose to announce early so that Nehem’s prayer warriors could be praying for Nehem’s Mom, Dad, and Nehem’s sibling during our time of waiting. 

And yes, I’m taking vitamins and doing everything I know to do to prevent SB, but that still doesn’t mean we are 100% in the clear. So please don’t ask me if I’m taking my vitamins; because I can assure you that I am.

I hope that answers your questions!

Also, I’ve always heard that you show earlier with your second pregnancy. But seriously, I’m only 9 weeks!