Psalm 113:9 “He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord.”

In my darkest days around 2013, after confirming I had repro-immuno disorder categories 1, 2 and 5, never did I imagine that one day, I will be holding not just one, but two lovely rainbow APAS babies.

Fast forward to now, 5 years later, my little family is welcoming our latest addition, Lucia Gabrielle.

Lucia is named after my mom, Lucy. Her name also symbolizes our family’s little burning light; and Gabrielle, in honor of Angel Gabriel, who is the protector of my rainbow babies.

She was unplanned. The truth is, I was scared and disappointed when I knew that I was pregnant.

Too early.

Santi, my eldest, was still so young and I was not mentally and emotionally prepared. I would have wanted to spend more time with him.

Just him and me. Santiago and Mommy.

But one thing that this journey has taught me is that IT IS NEVER IN OUR HANDS.

Looking back, I would have not wanted it any other way.

While I had a harder time this pregnancy because I was put on bedrest the first 3 months (subchorionic hemorrhage and hyperemesis gravidarum), my immune problems were easier to address. Having leftover treatments from my previous pregnancy, I only had 2 LITs and 1 intralipid session, then aspirin and heparin therapy.

Going through a pregnancy with RID is tough but not impossible. With prayers, an amazing medical team (ours is Guinto-Gloria tandem) and an even amazing support group, you will overcome this ordeal.

Never ever EVER lose hope.

May God bless everyone reading this and I pray that you all will hold your rainbow babies one day.