About the Kirstens

Big sister Patricia Kirsten was born sleeping on March 30, 2012 at 31 weeks gestation. She weighed 4 lbs and 2 oz and was 16.5 inches long. We have no explanation for why her heart stopped beating, but we know she was beautiful and we will love and miss her always. She made us a family and will never be forgotten.

Little sister Anna Kirsten was born on January 8, 2013 at 26 weeks gestation. She weighed 2 lbs and 6 oz and was 14 inches long. Like her sister, we have no explanation for why Anna was born a micro-preemie. Anna spent 83 days in the NICU before coming home oxygen-free and a champion eater. 

Medical terms used to describe Anna include:

• intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) grades IV/II
• periventricular leukomalacia (PVL)
• right porencephalic cyst
• hydrocephalus
• ventriculoperitonial (VP) shunt
• milk and soy protein allergies

Other terms used to describe Anna include:

• fighter
• survivor
• feisty
• dramatic
• snuggly
• ADORABLE