The birth of their third son brought immense joy to Brie Morgan Bauer and her family. However, this happiness quickly turned into fear and tragedy when Brie lost her legs and arms to toxic shock. Despite this devastating setback, Brie has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for her countless followers on social media in the Kansas City area.
The GoFundMe page, which aims to raise $100,000 to cover medical expenses and other bills, has already exceeded expectations by raising over $350,000. It’s incredible to see the support pouring in from around the world, as the mother and her baby son have garnered over 360,000 followers on Instagram.
One of the followers expressed their encouragement, saying, “You will have God by your side!”
“Stay strong and keep pushing forward,” encouraged a supporter from New Zealand.
Another person extended their well wishes by writing, “I am praying for all of you!”
On February 17, the journey started when Bauer, a 35-year-old nurse, entered AdventHealth Shawnee Mission for an emergency C-section. According to the fundraising site, she was 27 weeks pregnant with two young sons. At 3:51 in the afternoon, Bauer and her husband, Reid, joyfully welcomed their third son, Beau, into the world. Beau weighed a delicate 2 pounds and 8 ounces.
As Beau received the necessary medical attention and was taken to the neonatal intensive care unit for further care, his mother’s condition became increasingly serious.
Natalie Bogan Morgan and Molly Cole, the organizers of the fundraiser, wrote about the medical team’s challenges in providing oxygen to her fluid-filled lungs and stopping her bleeding. They also mentioned that Brie started experiencing organ failure.
Bauer defied the odds when she was placed in a medically induced coma. Her family received a disheartening message that she might not make it through the night. However, Bauer’s resilience prevailed. Within a day, lab results revealed the culprit: streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, a bacterial infection, combined with disseminated intravascular coagulation. This rare and severe condition triggers abnormal blood clotting throughout the body.
According to the narrative, her husband spoke to his wife with Beau at her bedside.
“Brie,” he said, his voice filled with relief. “It’s Reid. The baby is safe and sound. He’s absolutely beautiful and bears a striking resemblance to you.”
Bauer’s eyes fluttered open.
The organizers noted that Brie’s determination to fight was evident.
Bauer has undergone several surgeries in the weeks and months that followed, including amputations to her right arm just above the elbow, and her left arm just below. Additionally, she had her right leg amputated at the hip, and her left leg just above the knee. During her recovery, she was eventually transferred to the University of Kansas Hospital for further treatment.
After receiving treatment at the hospital, her son was discharged with minimal complications. Since February 17th, the family has been providing round-the-clock care for Bauer, taking turns in 21 shifts per week. Meanwhile, her husband is taking care of their boys back at their Johnson County residence.
Bauer and her family members have not given any interviews at this time. Bauer is facing complications, including renal failure, which requires her to undergo dialysis.
Bauer’s social media photos and videos showcasing his unwavering spirit during rehab have captured the attention and stirred the emotions of people across the globe.
Bauer effortlessly maneuvers her wheelchair, skillfully learning to use her prosthetic hand and engaging in regular exercise. With newfound strength and determination, she lovingly cradles her son on her chest, cherishing each precious moment.
One follower expressed their admiration, stating, “You all have been an inspiration to thousands all over the world. Your determination, fortitude, perseverance, and dedication as doctors and nurses, along with the support of your families, is truly remarkable. It serves as a powerful testimony.”
In the most recent Instagram post on June 1, Bauer shares a heartfelt video montage accompanied by the soothing melody of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers’ “Learning to Fly.” The tender moment captures Bauer holding Beau on her lap, feeding him with a bottle, and planting gentle kisses on his precious little head.
“What a difference a week and a half makes!” exclaims the post. “We are incredibly proud of our girl for absolutely dominating her rehab! A heartfelt thank you goes out to the amazing OT and PT teams who have been instrumental in helping her overcome obstacles. Keep pushing forward, Brie!”
